NSW Police Launch Operation Soteria to Combat Escalating Youth Crime in Regional Areas

The initiative targets 80 to 100 ringleaders, aged 11 to 16, with a focus on violent offenses and social media-driven notoriety.

Operation Soteria deploys 80 officers to nine regional areas, including Dubbo, Moree, and Tamworth, to address youth crime escalation.
The operation focuses on aggravated break-ins, car thefts, and crimes promoted on social media for local fame.
Social media is a key driver, with young offenders posting about their crimes to gain notoriety and outdo peers.
NSW Police aim to disrupt ringleaders and reoffenders while diverting peripheral offenders to youth support programs.
Despite stable youth crime rates over the past decade, public concern has risen due to increasing violence and visibility of offenses.