It is an invaluable way to ensure accurate messaging can be provided and to address many of the rumours, myths and inaccuracies that are circulated, particularly via social media.

Social media is a great tool for information sharing but when it comes to criminal matters, we must be careful around how and what we post.

CCTV can provide vital evidence and we are grateful for members of the community who provide us with footage to assist our investigations.

However, activity on social media can pose a threat to prosecutions through practices such as sharing images of offenders, before they are put before the courts, comments made by potential jurors, and discussion of matter online.

Furthermore, the sharing videos of these offending youth groups is providing a platform for their criminal actions to be celebrated and achieve notoriety, as well as inciting further criminal acts to feed misguided quests for popularity.

Please remember it is inappropriate to post comments or speculation about matters before the courts.

We ask you to refrain from posting on social media as this has the high potential to interfere with procedural justice.

I thank the members of the public who have inquired as to the safety and welfare of the police who were placed in extremely dangerous situations by offenders in a stolen vehicle this week.

These officers performed their duty professionally and lawfully whilst being insulted, taunted, threatened, and injured.

Officers who despite this barrage of disgraceful behaviour and risks to their personal safety, turned up for the next shift to again serve their community.

Thank you for your dedication and service.

As a community, I know how many of you are feeling about this.

However, there is a group of people I haven't yet heard from on this topic - the parents, guardians, families and elders of these offending youth..

It is you who I invite to come and speak with me this week, or any week.

Mount Isa Officer in Charge

Snr Sgt Renee Hanrahan