Police say ‘high visibility patrols’ are being used to help enforce public health orders across the region

There had been claims of a major operation targeting one town, but police have not confirmed any action against businesses or individuals in the area.

Police say they are continuing high visibility patrols of the region to monitor public health order compliance. Picture: NCA Newswire / Gaye Gerard

Police have said they are continuing to conduct high-visibility operations across the district to monitor compliance with Covid-19 related rules.

There has been talk this week of fines and action against a cafe in Mullumbimby this week on social media, but police have not confirmed any such action.

“Officers from Tweed-Byron Police District continue to conduct high visibility patrols throughout the area, including the Mullumbimby community, to ensure compliance with all orders under the Public Health Act,” a NSW Police spokeswoman said.

“Police appeal to the community to report suspected breaches of any ministerial direction or behaviour which may impact on the health and safety of the community.

“Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.”

As Sydney remains under lockdown conditions until Friday, July 16, regional NSW remains under certain restrictions.

This includes mask-wearing in non-residential indoor settings and a maximum of five visitors to homes.

This week alone, one man was sentenced in Byron Bay Local Court for assaulting numerous people after he was asked to wear a mask in a Lismore shopping centre, and another faced court after he told police he had Covid-19, then spat in their direction.