Suryaa International Desk: For the first time in Australian history, high-level security measures have been implemented in Sydney. Following the attack at Bondi Beach, the New South Wales (NSW) Police Force has deployed a newly formed Armed Response Command (ARC) to patrol city streets.
This special unit, consisting of approximately 250 officers, is patrolling major public areas, places of worship, and key intersections equipped with Australian combat assault rifles. A Royal Commission inquiry revealed that during the Bondi Beach attack, police were disadvantaged because they were equipped only with standard Glock pistols while facing perpetrators armed with long-arm rifles.
In response to the incident, the government established this armed unit to ensure rapid response during emergencies. Following inquiries conducted in April and May, the unit was allocated approximately 94 million Australian dollars for specialized vehicles and command centers.
The deployment of police carrying military-style assault rifles in Australia has drawn mixed reactions from human rights groups and international organizations. Groups such as Amnesty International have raised concerns regarding the militarization of police and the protection of fundamental civil rights. Conversely, the state government maintains that public safety is the primary priority and asserts that these security measures are necessary to counter terrorism threats.