Australian police beefed up for revelry across Victoria state

SYDNEY, Dec. 29 (Xinhua) -- Police will have a "significant presence" in Australia's Victoria state, with specialist squads on standby to ensure safety and security for revelers ringing in the new year in crowded celebratory spots, authorities said on Friday.

Half a million people are expected to swarm state capital Melbourne's downtown alone, with thousands heading to the coastal and community hubs during the New Year's Eve weekend festivities, according to a media statement from the state police.

Police Deputy Commissioner Andrew Crisp said police will be focusing on "anti-social behaviour, violence, and drink and drug driving," with the Operations Response, Air Wing and other teams ready to be deployed.

Police will be on the roads "targeting drink, drug and distracted drivers ... We will have a significant and highly-visible presence on our public transport system this New Year's Eve," he said.

The announcement came a day after authorities tested a new emergency loudspeaker warning system in central Melbourne, as part of the city's measures against terrorism and other public threats. Permanent bollard barriers have also been put up at the major Bourke Street Mall retail area, with off-street security upgrades rolling out at other locations.

Recent incidents that have rattled the major city and popular tourist destinations included a 32-year-old Australian man allegedly driving his SUV into a crowded intersection on Dec 21, leaving 20 people hospitalized. The suspect has been remanded in custody and is facing 18 counts of attempted murder.

Similarly, in January, a 27-year-old suspect drove his car into downtown pedestrians at lunchtime, claiming six lives and injuring at least 30 others. The driver pleaded not guilty to murder and attempted murder charges earlier this month.

Last month, authorities thwarted a terror plot to shoot down New Year's Eve revelers at the city's Federation Square hub. Enditem