Police across the Illawarra region have launched a major crackdown on domestic violence offenders, with ten alleged perpetrators currently on the run from authorities.
Wanted offenders across the region
The statewide police operation, known as Operation Amarok XII, is targeting high-risk domestic violence offenders this week. Among those being sought are eight men and two women accused of serious domestic violence offences.
Lake Illawarra Police District officers have identified 50-year-old Scott Tozer as one of the wanted individuals. Police say he is known to frequent Dapto, Unanderra and surrounding suburbs.
Another wanted man, Timothy Reed, aged 50, is known to frequent Shellharbour and Wollongong areas. South Coast Police District officers are seeking numerous other alleged offenders including Jayden Turner, Caleb Conlon, Tony Singh, Joseph Rainbird, Keiran McKenzie, Gail McKenzie, Jiselle Brown and Trevor Thomas.
Authorities have confirmed that one offender, known to frequent Unanderra, has already been arrested during the ongoing blitz.
Alarming domestic violence statistics
The police operation comes as concerning new data reveals the scale of domestic violence in the Illawarra region. During the most recent financial year, police recorded 1127 domestic violence assaults across the area.
This staggering figure equates to at least three domestic violence assaults occurring every single day in the region. The statistics show a 12.4 percent increase compared to the previous year.
Historical data paints an even more troubling picture, with reported domestic violence assaults jumping 11.3 percent over the past two decades in the Illawarra. This represents an increase from 1013 incidents in the 2005-06 financial year to current levels.
Specialist police units join forces
Operation Amarok represents a coordinated effort across multiple police units to tackle domestic violence offenders. Specialist teams including the Raptor Squad, DV High Risk Offender Teams, and Youth Command are working together during the blitz.
Police have outlined that the operation will focus on arresting wanted domestic violence offenders, conducting apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) compliance checks, and seizing illegal weapons.
Lake Illawarra Police District officers stated that "the operation is focused on ensuring the safety and wellbeing of domestic and family violence victims and the broader NSW community."
Authorities have delivered a strong message to offenders, declaring that "domestic and family violence has no place in our society." They emphasized that Operation Amarok XII sends a clear warning that abuse, intimidation and violence will not be tolerated.
Police are urging anyone with information about the location of the wanted individuals to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Support services are available for those affected by domestic violence, including Lifeline (13 11 14), Men's Referral Service (1300 776 491), and 1800-RESPECT (1800 737 732).
