MOTORISTS with interstate number plates are being verbally abused in the Mount Gambier district, with police issuing a stern warning against the behaviour given the regional city services several cross-border communities.
It follows new border restrictions put in place last week in response to the COVID-19 health crisis, forcing people who cross the border to self-isolate for 14 days unless granted an exemption at a police road block.
Since the control was introduced, Limestone Coast Police operations manager Inspector Campbell Hill revealed reports of motorists in vehicles with Victorian licence plates had been subject to “adverse comments” in the district.
“We have become aware of some concern or interaction in the community that is not appropriate and in all likelihood, ill-informed,” Insp Hill said.
“It has come to our attention that some people driving interstate registered vehicles have been subject to adverse comments from other members of the community as a result of the border work that has been undertaken
recently.”
Insp Hill said people needed to remember the Mount Gambier area was a border community.
“There are people that live in Victoria and work or attend school interstate and the same works in reverse – people living in South Australia work in Victoria,” he said.
“Our current work educating people moving across borders is to adhere to State and Federal Government advice, along with the comprehensive advice from health authorities.”
Insp Hill said police would take reports of verbal attacks seriously.
Meanwhile, he said police were continuing to work hard alongside health authorities to “flatten the curve”.
He reported a good response to non-essential travel advice, which had led to reduced traffic across the region.
“There has been a reduction in identifiable traffic flow, consistent with the advice that is put out regarding self-isolation and other restrictions in the community,” Insp Hill said.
As businesses continue to close their doors, he urged owners to consider crime prevention measures.
“We would encourage businesses during this time to reduce the amount of valuables and stock being left in the premises,” Insp Hill said.
“We would also encourage business owners to place signage up advising people of the fact that this has been done.
“The installation of an audible or monitored alarm is encouraged where at all possible, along with security cameras.”
Although there has not been a spike in crime, police will focus on protecting businesses over the coming months.
“Our patrols are mindful of the impacts and vulnerabilities that some businesses are facing and will cater our patrols to ensure security of businesses and streets across the Limestone Coast,” Insp Hill said.
