Geelong CBD crime blitz nets 350 arrests

An ongoing police operation targeting retail theft and anti social behaviour in Geelong’s CBD has resulted in more than 350 arrests over the past year.

Operation Plymouth focuses on major shopping centres and public transport hubs, including Geelong Railway Station and the Moorabool Street bus stop, aiming to detect crime and improve community safety.

In the last 12 months, police have made 351 arrests, with the majority linked to shop theft offences. A total of 299 offences related to stealing, alongside arrests for assault, affray and criminal damage.

Police have also taken a support based approach, offering referrals to vulnerable individuals. More than 100 people accepted assistance after being identified sleeping rough or stealing essential items.

Road and pedestrian safety has also been targeted, with 176 infringement notices issued for offences such as speeding and mobile phone use while driving.

A recent four day blitz in April led to 75 arrests, highlighting the continued intensity of the operation.

During the crackdown, a 41 year old woman was charged after allegedly stealing $3000 worth of pharmaceuticals. Further investigations linked her and a 44 year old man to $32,000 in thefts over eight weeks.

Police will allege the woman spat at a shop attendant during an incident involving $11,000 worth of cosmetics.

Both were arrested on 14 April and charged with 23 combined offences. The woman was remanded to appear in court on 22 April, while the man is due to appear on 15 May.

Despite long term data showing crime on Little Malop Street has dropped significantly over the past decade, police say maintaining safety remains a priority.

“Police have been incredibly focused on Geelong’s CBD – arresting more than 350 offenders in the last year as part of Operation Plymouth.”

“While police patrol the CBD every day, Plymouth sees bolstered numbers during busy school holiday periods when more families and children are out and about.”

“The results send a clear message to people that if you choose to offend in the Geelong CBD, you will be arrested and held to account.”

Operation Plymouth will continue during school holidays to support safety during high foot traffic periods.