New South Wales Police Minister Yasmin Catley has denied that gang violence is out of control in the state, following two suspected mistaken-identity shootings in as many days. Ms Catley stated at a media conference on Thursday that while the recent deaths were unacceptable, the police force possesses the necessary resources to address organised crime gangs.
The NSW Police Commissioner, Mal Lanyon, confirmed that shootings in Glen Alpine on Tuesday and Merrylands on Wednesday are being investigated as mistaken-identity killings by organised crime groups. The first victim was a 23-year-old university student, and the second was reportedly shot outside the home of a suspected underworld figure, neither of whom were known to police.
Commissioner Lanyon expressed concern over the increasing recruitment of young, inexperienced individuals to carry out violent offences domestically, often for minimal payment. He noted that organisers are using encrypted communications and that police are focusing on technology to target these individuals.
Ms Catley stated that 800 arrests have been made in the past year by the taskforce targeting gang violence. The acting premier, Prue Car, said the government is considering whether enough is being done to divert young people from organised crime groups.