Gang violence is not ‘out of control’ in Sydney, police minister says after two shootings in two days

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Published: 2026-09-03T04:37:30.191Z • Permanent link

Yasmin Catley, the New South Wales police minister, has denied that gang violence is out of control in Sydney, following two shootings in two days. The recent incidents have raised concerns about the escalating violence in the city, with some experts warning that the situation may be spiraling out of control. According to official data, as many as six suspected mistaken identity shootings have occurred since the start of last year, with police struggling to keep pace with the rising tide of violence.

The police minister's comments come as tensions between rival gangs continue to simmer in the city's inner-western suburbs. According to local reports, the violence is often fueled by territorial disputes and personal grudges, with innocent bystanders caught in the crossfire. In a bid to address the issue, the police minister has promised to increase the number of officers patrolling the affected areas, while also working to strengthen community relationships and improve communication between law enforcement and local residents.

Experts point to a lack of effective strategies to address the root causes of gang violence, with some arguing that the current approach is too focused on punishment rather than prevention. Dr. Rachel Lee, a criminologist at the University of Sydney, notes that "the problem is not just about policing, but also about addressing the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to gang culture." The police minister's comments have been welcomed by some community leaders, who argue that the government must do more to tackle the issue.

The recent surge in gang violence in Sydney has significant implications for the city's infrastructure and economic development. The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) has seen a rise in concerns about the stability of the city's markets, with some analysts warning that the violence could impact investor confidence. In a statement, the ASX noted that "the safety and security of our staff, customers, and the wider community is our top priority." The city's transportation networks, including its iconic railway system, are also vulnerable to disruption in the event of further violence.

Research institutions in the region are also taking a close look at the issue, with some experts warning that the violence could have broader implications for public health and social cohesion. A report by the University of New South Wales's Kirby Institute found that "the impact of gang violence on mental health and wellbeing is significant, and requires urgent attention." The city's healthcare providers are also on high alert, with some hospitals reporting an increase in patients requiring treatment for gunshot wounds.

The recent surge in gang violence in Sydney is part of a larger pattern of escalating violence in cities around the world. In the United States, for example, the number of homicides has risen by over 10% in recent years, with some cities experiencing particularly high levels of violence. In the UK, the government has introduced new measures to tackle gang culture, including increased funding for community programs and policing initiatives. The European Union has also taken steps to address the issue, with some countries introducing new laws aimed at tackling gang violence.