In response to the Western Australian Police Force releasing its top 12 most-wanted graffiti vandals last week, the state government has announced grants of up to $15,000 offered to local councils and community groups to help tackle vandalism.
The list comes as police executed Operation Quadrangle V, targeting graffiti, which came to an end on August 11.
As part of the operation, police executed two warrants in Belmont last Tuesday, after video footage identified two men suspected of committing graffiti damage on a stationary train carriage near Northam.
Police seized graffiti material and various drug paraphernalia during the warrant.
Evidence is now being assessed for possible charges to be laid.
In the 2018/19 financial year there were 13 reports of graffiti in Northam, up from five reports the previous year.
Police Minister Michelle Roberts said the grants were available to develop projects that helped address graffiti, including graffiti removal trailers, installation of public murals at graffiti hot spots and the application of anti-graffiti coatings.
"Cleaning up graffiti in Western Australia costs the community tens of millions of dollars every year," Ms Roberts said.
"Unsightly graffiti on buildings and in our neighbourhoods is an eyesore and can make people feel unsafe.
"Police are doing their bit to disrupt and prosecute graffiti vandals.
"We're offering these grants to support local councils and community groups to develop initiatives, which prevent or help reduce illegal graffiti across WA."
As a result of Operation Quadrangle V, 36 suspects were interviewed and two search warrants were conducted resulting in 45 charges being laid. There were 22 arrests and 13 summons issued.
If caught, graffiti vandals face up to two years in prison and a $24,000 fine. Anyone with information can contact the Goodbye Graffiti Hotline on 1800 442 255.
