Gang squad deployed to tackle ‘young thugs’

Acting Chief Police Commissioner Shane Patton says a small minority of African youths are “acting like street gangs” but denies there is a widespread issue.

It comes just days after Victoria Police asked reporters not to refer to offenders as “gangs” because there was no evidence to suggest they were.

The acting police chief said on Monday a “gang squad” had been deployed to focus on tackling the issue, particularly prevalent in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Speaking on 3AW Drive, Mr Patton rejected suggestions they weren’t taking the matter seriously.

“We acknowledge there is an issue,” he said.

Click PLAY below to hear more on 3AW Drive

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