Gangland Violence Sparks Political Row in Western Sydney

A recent comment from a senior police officer has sparked a heated debate over gangland violence in Western Sydney, with residents and politicians calling for greater action to address the issue.

Assistant Police Commissioner Grant Taylor attempted to contextualize the recent spate of shootings, stating that the number of organized crime murders is consistent with previous years.

"It always looks like crime is out of control but when you look at it … we always have about eight organised crime murders a year, we've had six and then [Wednesday] night's made seven, we are basically on track [with] what we always have in regards to these murders," Assistant Commissioner Taylor said.

However, his comments were met with criticism from NSW opposition leader Kellie Sloane, who seized on the issue as a political one.

"I do not accept that gangland murders are part of everyday life in our city. I do not accept that," she said.

The exchange has highlighted the growing concern among Western Sydney residents, who are questioning the response of the government and NSW Police to the recent surge in gangland violence.

Rob from Condell Park expressed his concerns, stating that police have lost control of gun violence.

"I don't think they've got a leg to stand on, to be honest," he said. "It looks like it's happening more and more frequently now. Gun laws don't work. I just think they've probably got to do a little bit more. Punishments aren't harsh enough."

Josie from Punchbowl echoed similar sentiments, calling for tougher laws and enforcement.

"You just feel scared … I could just be walking innocently down the road with my daughter and then wrong place, wrong time," she said. "You're hearing more and more of it and it's just really scary."

Peter Boutros from Greenacre also expressed his concerns, stating that it's disheartening to hear senior police talking down the problem.

"I think it's insulating to be honest because we pride ourselves on being a good, safe country where our kids can run around the street and go to the park and play," he said.

NSW Premier Chris Minns has announced a suite of law reforms aimed at stamping out criminal networks, emphasizing that the recent violence is not normal and will not be tolerated.

"It's not normal, it's shocking, it's the kind of abject outside violence that we are not used to in our peaceful community and we shouldn't have to put up with it," he said.

With the state election looming, the pressure is on the government and police to address the issue and restore a sense of safety to Western Sydney communities.