The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) strongly disputes and is disappointed by recent media comments from the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) ACT Regional Secretary, alleging that ACT Policing officers refuse to attend locations considered ‘too dangerous.’
AFPA President Alex Caruana expressed strong doubt over these claims, stating he would be shocked if any evidence could substantiate the allegations.
“I do not believe that ACT Policing officers would ever refuse to attend a residence or location due to it being ‘too dangerous.’ There is no such thing as ‘too dangerous’ for police. Officers may adopt a ‘cordon and contain’ approach while awaiting specialist resources, but if a situation becomes critical or people require immediate assistance, ACT Policing officers will act without hesitation.
“If there is verifiable evidence that officers have failed to attend so-called ‘dangerous locations,’ I would like to see it. I’m also prepared to sit down and discuss these matters with the CPSU ACT Regional Secretary.
“I have spoken with several ACT Policing members who are frustrated and disappointed by these claims, which wrongly suggest they are not fulfilling their duties. ACT Policing officers regularly enter high-risk situations where violence is imminent, putting their own safety on the line to protect the community. The suggestion that they would abandon their responsibilities is simply unfounded,” Mr. Caruana said.
Until credible evidence is provided, the AFPA will continue to support its members and challenge any misleading narratives that undermine public trust in its members.
For comments:
AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts – (02) 6285 1677 – troy.r@afpa.org.au
The Australian Federal Police Association (AFPA) strongly disputes and is disappointed by recent media comments from the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) ACT Regional Secretary, alleging that ACT Policing officers refuse to attend locations considered ‘too dangerous.’
AFPA President Alex Caruana expressed strong doubt over these claims, stating he would be shocked if any evidence could substantiate the allegations.
“I do not believe that ACT Policing officers would ever refuse to attend a residence or location due to it being ‘too dangerous.’ There is no such thing as ‘too dangerous’ for police. Officers may adopt a ‘cordon and contain’ approach while awaiting specialist resources, but if a situation becomes critical or people require immediate assistance, ACT Policing officers will act without hesitation.
“If there is verifiable evidence that officers have failed to attend so-called ‘dangerous locations,’ I would like to see it. I’m also prepared to sit down and discuss these matters with the CPSU ACT Regional Secretary.
“I have spoken with several ACT Policing members who are frustrated and disappointed by these claims, which wrongly suggest they are not fulfilling their duties. ACT Policing officers regularly enter high-risk situations where violence is imminent, putting their own safety on the line to protect the community. The suggestion that they would abandon their responsibilities is simply unfounded,” Mr. Caruana said.
Until credible evidence is provided, the AFPA will continue to support its members and challenge any misleading narratives that undermine public trust in its members.
For comments:
AFPA Media and Government Relations Manager Troy Roberts – (02) 6285 1677 – troy.r@afpa.org.au
