Airwing aids ground ops

WA Police Airwing made a visit to Geraldton on Thursday last week and assisted with aerial observations in the successful apprehension of several people.

While not every apprehension resulted in an arrest, with the assistance of the police fixed-wing aircraft, police had the ability to cordon off some thick scrub, where they apprehended a local known drug dealer who is assisting police with inquiries.

Shortly after, the police airwing assisted in the apprehension of an off-road motorbike rider who crossed the road in front of a police vehicle while airwing videoed and followed the rider to his home address. When police arrived, he was arrested and the motor bike confiscated.

This avoided the need for police on the ground to engage in a potentially dangerous pursuit.

A 32-year-old man from Moresby was charged with reckless driving, riding an unlicensed and incapable vehicle and no driver’s licence (court suspended).

He was remanded in custody to appear again in the Geraldton Magistrate’s Court later this month.

Police would like to advise readers unlicensed off-road motorbikes such as trail bikes or registered motorbikes that have expired for more than two years, if caught on a road or in an area open and used by the public, will be confiscated by police and ordered to be destroyed by the court.

Some time between September 7 and 8, offenders went to an address in Curlewis Street, Rangeway and stole a bike by cutting the bike chain securing it to the back of a caravan.

The Veletrix electric bike was not fitted with its battery but can be ridden without it.

The bike also has a carry basket on the back of it.

Anyone with information should report it to Geraldton police on 9923 4555 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Burglaries were reported this week in Beachlands, Wandina, Waggrakine and Wonthella.

Police stress again the need to lock up properties and report any suspicious activity anytime on 9923 4555.

Geraldton police’s open day was held on Saturday with great success. More than 800 people attended the rare opening to see the final renovations of the complex.

With the tour of the building, displays and presentations from other WA Police sections, it was great to showcase Gerladton police to the community.

Thank you to all those who helped with the day and to those who came and had a look.

* Senior Sergeant Brad Bird is the officer-in-charge at Geraldton Police Station.