POLICE say they are ramping up patrols to prevent out-of-towners flocking to holiday hotspots on the Mornington Peninsula.

The aim is to ensure that only peninsula residents or others travelling with a permitted purpose arrive in the area.

Police say they will have a “highly visible” presence at checkpoints on arterial roads, mobile vehicle checkpoints and ongoing patrols as part of Operation Sentinel.

A note on the police Eyewatch social media page said anyone pulled over at a vehicle checkpoint could expect to have their licence and work permit checked by police and their residential address confirmed.

“Police will also be proactively patrolling popular locations, such as beaches, parks and other areas where people are expected to visit, to ensure that everyone is adhering to the current stage four restrictions.

“While these checkpoints may cause some inconvenience for local residents, it’s important to remember that they are an important component in stopping the spread of coronavirus and keeping the community safe.”

For information about the latest restrictions visit the Department of Health and Human Services at dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus or call the hotline 1800 675 398. Or visit DHHS page on Facebook.

First published in the Southern Peninsula News – 29 September 2020