Safety at bus malls and shared public spaces is a priority for Tasmania Police.

Officers from the established Metro police unit work in partnership with Metro Tasmania to prevent, resolve and investigate issues that occur on public transport or around key transport areas.

This week, officers from Taskforce Respect will provide support to Metro police in a collaborative approach to build further confidence in public transport and public places.

Taskforce Respect officer-in-charge, Glenorchy Division Inspector Jason Klug, said the operation would feature high-visibility patrols at bus malls, shopping precincts and public places along bus routes; and comes as community attention turns to the festive season.

“Public safety is a focus of Tasmania Police and when we work together, we can ensure the festive season is enjoyable for everyone,” Inspector Klug said.

“With Christmas approaching and the number of shoppers increasing, Tasmania Police is continuing to focus on safety in public places and we’re sending the message that public transport is a strong alternative to transit around Hobart.”

In collaboration with Metro, Tasmania Police has ready access to bus CCTV footage, bus communications, and bus information to quickly enhance investigations.

“Our officers proactively patrol to ensure passengers, drivers and other community members can enjoy a safe environment,” Inspector Klug said.

“For those doing the right thing, our officers are there to ensure your journey remains trouble-free.

“If you are doing the wrong thing, and this includes disruptive behaviours or more serious offending, our officers will be ready to meet you onboard or at the next stop.”

Metro Tasmania Acting CEO Laurie Hansen said Metro’s partnership with Tasmania Police included monitoring and responding to anti-social behaviour and incidents in and around buses.

“Metro is pleased to support this initiative with Tasmania Police through its dedicated police officer resources and working closely with Inspector Klug and his team,” he said.

“Metro remains firmly committed to doing its part to tackle the community issue of anti-social behaviour and ensuring the safety of both staff and passengers. Thankfully, most Metro passengers are respectful and considerate.”

Taskforce Respect was established in May this year, built around high-visibility patrols and community engagement to target retail crime and anti-social behaviour.

The taskforce has helped achieve strong results in reducing overall crime in the Glenorchy division.

In particular, there has been an 8 per cent reduction in shoplifting in the financial year to date and public place assaults have reduced by 31 per cent in the financial year to date.

Inspector Klug said since the introduction of Taskforce Respect, 344 charges have been laid by the Taskforce.

Offences include stealing and possession of stolen property, street offences such as possession of dangerous articles and disorderly conduct, as well as traffic offences and non-compliance of bail conditions.

If you have information on a crime, please report to police on 131 444 or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.

Information can also be reported to Crime Stoppers Tasmania anonymously at crimestopperstas.com.au or on 1800 333 000.