It has recently been brought to the attention of the CEPU that Australia Post has been allowing the police to use an SPB van from Camperdown Hub to conduct surveillance activities on suspected criminals in the Redfern area.
Apparently the “word on the street” is that certain personalities in this area are “looking out” for this particular van number which may put CEPU members’ safety and wellbeing at risk while carrying out their duties driving this particular van.
The van was sent to Alexandria Hub on Thursday 11 September. Once the local AUR was made aware of the issue he rightfully immediately demanded that the van be relocated to another geographical area far away from Redfern, which the CEPU can confirm has taken place.
However, we have written to Australia Post at the highest state level demanding an explanation as to how they could have been so sloppy to not contemplate that their actions may result in reprisals against drivers by disgruntled ‘criminals’ in the area and what steps they are taking to ensure this does not happen again.
Despite the seriousness of this request, as this e-Bulletin goes online, the CEPU is yet to receive a response.
If the van, van identification number 6341, returns to the area, members working in the local geographical area are strongly advised to refuse to drive the van for the sake of their safety and wellbeing.
An additional, interesting claim has emerged that the NSW Police Force actually made a special request from Australia Post that they did not supply a Mercedes Sprinter van for this particular surveillance operation given claims made by the NSW Police of the inability to have “clear vision in viewing suspects from the driving position”.
The CEPU has also requested if there is any truth in this particular claim, that there is the inability to have clear vision from the drivers position, and if so, how come?
Members will be kept informed of any progress on this matter.
If members have any concerns about this matter, please contact Branch Hubs official, Aaron Stockdale on (02) 9893 7822.