ACT Policing Update on assault at Bus Interchange

UPDATE:

On Monday 23 October at approximately 7.30pm police responded to an incident at the Woden Bus Interchange where Chinese International secondary school students were allegedly assaulted.  Police have arrested two juveniles, who were not Chinese International secondary school students.  As the matter is before court ACT Policing is unable to provide any further detail on this specific matter.

In response to this incident and other incidences of assaults at bus interchanges, that did not involve Chinese International secondary school students, police have increased patrols in and around bus interchanges in the ACT.

In response to this particular incident police held, in conjunction with the ACT Education Directorate, meetings with Chinese community leaders, students, carers and parents.  At the meeting student’s personal safety, Australian policing and the local justice system was discussed including the importance of contacting police if they felt they were in danger or witnessed anti-social or criminal behaviour.

Canberra has a highly professional and effective police force that helps make it a safe place to live and visit.  As in every city in the world crime does occur and there are some personal safety messages police provide to the community including:

• Where possible walk in well-lit areas and where other people can see you
• Be aware of your surroundings and avoid using earphones so you can hear who is approaching you
• Consider having a personal alarm or whistle that you can access quickly.  Loud noises may deter criminals and attract people close by
• If you are confronted by someone who is trying to take your bag or wallet, give it to them.  It is not worth being injured
• If possible get a good description of the offender and if there is a vehicle involved make a note of colour, registration and number of occupants
• Always carry some form of identification that has details of a person to contact in the event of an emergency and any medical condition and medication you are on.
• When using the bus, to reduce waiting times know the bus timetables.  When waiting at the bus stop, if possible stand with other people and avoid isolated bus stops.  If the bus is empty, or nearly empty sit near the driver
• If you fear for your safety or feel that lives are in danger do not hesitate to call 000

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Two juveniles have been put before the ACT Children’s Court following reports of an assault.

ACT Policing received reports of an assault involving Chinese international secondary school students at one of Canberra’s transport hubs and as a result of these reports, two juveniles were arrested and put before the Court. As this matter is ongoing it is inappropriate to comment any further.

In response to the incident ACT Policing have engaged with the Chinese community and increased patrols in and around the public transport interchanges throughout the ACT. We encourage anyone that has any information regarding offences at transport interchanges to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via the website at www.act.crimestoppers.com.au.

Information can be provided anonymously.

Media enquiries

Police Media — (02) 6264 9460, act-police-media@afp.gov.au