A UTILITY terrain vehicle kitted with flashing lights is set to help fight bayside crime.
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Redland Bay Senior Sergeant Stephen Graham said the $15,000 vehicle could cross terrain like sand, making it the perfect addition to Bayside Patrol’s fleet.
The lightweight two-seater would be deployed to Southern Moreton Bay Islands for patrols and used in search-and-rescues.
It has been trialled at Coochiemudlo Island, with officers impressed at its maneuverability.
“The UTV gives us the ability to cross terrain which may have been difficult using traditional police vehicles, and will be of benefit in search and rescue situations,” Senior Sergeant Graham said.
“The bikes are sometimes referred to as Utility Terrain Vehicles and they have a steering wheel rather than handlebars.”
Senior Sergeant Graham said the UTV was classified as a motorbike and powered by a two-stroke engine.
It would be shared across stations within Bayside Patrol when needed, he said.
The addition has come after Redland Bay water police had their old barge and boat replaced late last year.
The upgrades were part of Queensland Police Service’s $4.5 million renewal of their aging water police fleet, which included the addition of seven jet skis.
Staffing has also been boosted at Redland Bay station, with the addition of a four detective Criminal Investigation Branch.
Two extra officers at Russell Island will also soon be recruited.
