When Operation X-Ray Scutter took place at a Chermside shopping centre, police increased their presence across the busy retail precinct with a clear focus on community safety. The operation centred on proactive patrols designed to deter offending behaviour and reassure workers and shoppers in one of the suburb’s most frequented public spaces.
Led by North Brisbane District Police, the initiative formed part of broader efforts to address property crime and anti-social behaviour in retail environments, particularly areas that experience high daily foot traffic.
Police Activity in the Retail Precinct
As part of the operation, officers conducted targeted patrols through the shopping centre and surrounding areas. During these patrols, police arrested a 35-year-old man and charged him with 17 offences. The charges related to alleged property crime across multiple Brisbane suburbs and were laid following proactive police activity within the Chermside precinct.
The man was remanded in custody and scheduled to appear before Brisbane Magistrates Court at a later date. Police have indicated the arrest demonstrates the role of visible and intelligence-led policing in identifying repeat offending patterns in busy commercial locations.
Focus on Prevention and Visibility
While enforcement outcomes were part of the operation, police messaging around Operation X-Ray Scutter has emphasised prevention and visibility. Officers engaged with people working in the precinct, reinforcing the importance of early reporting and community awareness in reducing crime.
Residents and workers in the area were able to see an increased police presence throughout the operation, particularly during peak shopping periods. Police have encouraged anyone with concerns about safety in the area to approach officers on patrol.
What It Means for Chermside Locals
Chermside’s shopping precinct is a central part of daily life for many locals, serving as both a workplace and a social hub. Operation X-Ray Scutter reflects ongoing efforts to maintain safety in these shared spaces through proactive policing rather than reactive responses.
Police have advised that similar patrols and engagement activities may continue in the area, with community cooperation playing a key role in keeping the precinct safe for everyone who works, shops or passes through Chermside.
Published 3-Dec-2025
