A Hunter man was caught hiding in a homemade hole during a four-day statewide crusade targeting offenders with a history of domestic violence (DV).
Operation Amarok XIII, which took place from Wednesday 13 May to Saturday 16 May, is an intelligence-led, offender-focussed initiative that aims to ensure the safety and wellbeing of domestic and family violence victims and the broader community.
All up, 993 people were arrested and indicted, with 299 arrest warrants executed.
Police laid 2,063 charges and conducted 1,847 bail and 14,318 apprehended domestic violence order (ADVO) compliance checks with a total of 391 breaches identified.
At least 94 firearms and 48 weapons were seized, too.
Officers attached to Hunter Valley Police District began an investigation in February into an incident where a male allegedly breached an ADVO.
Following extensive inquiries, they attended a home on Wakehurst Crescent, Singleton about 4.10pm on Friday 15 May.
There, police located a 41-year-old allegedly hiding in a manmade hole, concealed by a large dresser.
He was arrested, taken to Cessnock Police Station and charged with contravene prohibition/restriction in AVO (Domestic); common assault (DV); aggravated break and enter with intent knowing person there; destroy or damage property less than or equal to $2000 (DV); stalk/intimidate intend fear physical harm (domestic); and knowingly contravene prohibition/etc in AVO (Domestic).
He’s since appeared before Local Bail Division 2.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said Operation Amarok sent a clear message to the cowards committing DV offences.
“Police target the people who pose the greatest risk: repeat offenders, wanted offenders and those with outstanding warrants,” she explained.
“Domestic and family violence is a stain on our society.
“These offenders rely on fear and control… and Amarok is about turning that pressure back onto them.
“If you use violence, intimidation or coercive control, police will come for you.”
Domestic and Family Violence Corporate spokesperson Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul Dunstan said officers were committed to identifying offenders, protecting victims and disrupting violent behaviour before it escalated.
“Too many people in our community are living in fear inside their own homes,” he stated.
“Operation Amarok is designed to intervene, support victims and ensure offenders are put before the court.
“Our focus is on removing violent offenders from homes and enforcing protection orders.
“This operation reinforces our ongoing commitment to tackling domestic and family violence year-round.
“Amarok may be targeted.
“But, our dedication to protecting victims and pursuing offenders occurs every day and never stops.”
Information about support services is available by contacting 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) or visiting https://www.1800respect.org.au.
Reports of domestic and family-related crime or abuse can be made by contacting or attending your local police station. In an emergency, phone Triple Zero (000).
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