Police are investigating after another alleged youth gang assault in Glenorchy, marking the third such incident in the area in less than two weeks.
The youth reportedly suffered minor injuries following a verbal altercation involving two other youths in the Glenorchy Big W store.
An eyewitness described the incident as “another gang bashing” involving “at least six onto one,” leaving staff and customers “horrified.”
Police are calling for information as they investigate the incident, hoping anyone who may know who the alleged offenders are will come forward – quoting report number 773475.
“Police are continuing with increased patrols within the Glenorchy area,” a police spokesperson said.
The latest incident follows alarming reports of youths terrorising shoppers at Glenorchy Big W on Tuesday April 15 and an attack at Northgate on Wednesday April 23 that left a victim hospitalised.
Independent Elwick MLC Bec Thomas has responded forcefully to the escalating violence in the community.
“I am so angry and upset by this, I am shaking. I can only imagine how those directly affected feel,” Thomas said.
Thomas said she spoke directly with Premier Jeremy Rockliff over the phone on Sunday night after hearing of the incident, urging him to take immediate action.
“Permanent police presence in and around our shopping centres is the only thing that will ensure our safety right now. That’s what I asked the Premier for,” she said.
She has proposed a comprehensive approach beyond increased policing, including legislative changes to empower security officers and greater investment in early intervention programs for at-risk youth.
“We need a plan that is not tough or soft on crime, but smart on crime, and we need it now,” she said.
