Media Release

Sunshine Coast police tackle anti-social behaviour

Police in the Sunshine Coast District conducted a good order and drug detection operation in Mooloolaba last night.

Officers were out in force to detect and deter anti-social behaviour and promote a safer environment for everyone during Operation Hotel Caner.

“Operations such as this are a key part of promoting safer communities,” Sunshine Coast District Officer, Superintendent Ben Hanbidge said.

“The operation involved 60 officers and included police from both the Sunshine Coast District with additional resources from the Brisbane Dog Squad, State Crime Operations Command and the Public Safety Response Team”, Superintendent Hanbidge said.

Between 250 and 300 people were ‘passively searched’ by drug detection dogs resulting in nine people were charged in relation to 11 drug offences, this included nine charges of possession of a dangerous drug and two of possess a utensil.

Of those charged, two people were in possession of a large number of ecstasy tablets.

“Since the first operation approximately 12 months ago the detection of drug possession has dropped from 48 offenders to nine,” said Superintendent Hanbidge.

“We are sending a clear message to people that they need to act responsibly in public, even when they are out to have a good time and the operations appear to be working to reduce drug possession in the Mooloolaba area.”

Operation Hotel Caner resulted in a total of 20 people being arrested on 26 charges.

Further charges included one drink driver (0.148%), seven charges of public nuisance, two drunk in a public place charges and two charges of urinating in public.  

The remaining charges consisted of obstructing police, going armed in public and one warrant charge.

Police conducted 39 street checks and issued seven Liquor Infringement Notices during the operation.

Those charged are due to appear in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court in the coming weeks.