Townsville’s police capabilities have been boosted with the use of a POLAIR helicopter.
The EC135 twin engine helicopter can travel across Townsville in just seven minutes.
The helicopter has a pilot, camera operator and police observer on board who work to assist crews on the ground.
Efforts to purchase a permanent POLAIR helicopter for the region are underway.
The resource has already helped police track stolen vehicles, arrest offenders and locate missing people.
Police have released vision from the contracted helicopter assisting operations in Townsville.
One of the incidents was the search for an 11-year-old boy, successfully locating him safe and well sitting in a shallow creek bed near Jensen.
POLAIR also assisted with tracking a 25-year-old West End man who allegedly ran from police at Garbutt, providing advice to police crews on the ground, resulting in a quick arrest.
The man was charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle, in relation to a Volvo XC60 stolen from Idalia.
He has been remanded in custody with his matter next expected to be heard before Townsville Magistrates Court on February 2.
The government has also invested $13.3 million to implement digital encrypted police radio services in North Queensland.
Premier Steven Miles says he wants Queenslanders to feel safe in their homes.
“When Queensland Police requested POLAIR capabilities in North Queensland, I asked then to make a submission and we funded it.
“It was literally the first funding decision we made after we were sworn in.
“Now it’s in the air and we are buying a permanent helicopter for Townsville.
“The equipment is in direct response to changed offender behaviour and the need for police to quickly respond.”
Townsville MP Scott Stewart says we have seen great results already.
“We are already seeing outstanding results in the short time since this helicopter has been operating helping combat crime along with assisting in a range of operations which is why we have invested in this new asset.”
