Police cars were damaged during a party in Narre Warren, which drew resources from Dandenong.By Shaun Inguanzo
‘IDIOTIC’ behaviour at a party in Narre Warren interrupted a police operation designed to keep Greater Dandenong’s streets safe at night, the region’s top police officer says.
Assistant Commissioner Paul Evans told Star that a Brawler van and police involved in Operation Sarazan in Greater Dandenong – an operation designed to keep the city’s streets clear of violent mobs at night – were called as back-up to an out-of-control party in Narre Warren on Saturday night.
The party of between 400 and 500 teenagers was at a house in Galloway Drive, Narre Warren South, and police were called to the scene at 11pm.
Police said a 16-year-old boy was the host while his parents were interstate.
They also believe that the majority of teenagers were drinking alcohol.
The party-goers began throwing bottles at police cars as they attended, and police were forced to withdraw until backup arrived.
A police helicopter, dog squad, critical incident response team and Greater Dandenong units were among those called to help disperse the teenagers.
Mr Evans said he was disappointed by the event and the lack of remorse from the 16-year-old host.
He said it disadvantaged suburbs from where police resources were pulled, such as Greater Dandenong.
“The Brawler van is for anything that requires a large police response,” he said.
“But (the reallocation of police units) is the unfortunate consequence of when a lot of police resources have to go and help, and help put an end to idiotic behaviour.”
Last week Mr Evans told Star that Operation Sarazan, which has been running since November, was a raging success and had all but eliminated serious crime at night in Greater Dandenong.
