Police in Victoria have defended their approach to escalating youth crimes and violence following criticisms about the way the state government is dealing with street gangs.
Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull on Monday said he was "very concerned at the growing gang violence and lawlessness in Victoria, in particular in Melbourne", and accused Premier Daniel Andrews of failing to deal with the problem.
Victoria's acting police chief has reassured the public he and his officers were addressing African youth crimes in the community.
Acting Chief Commissioner Shane Patton fronted media on Tuesday after multiple reports of gang violence involving African youths in December.
Mr Patton said it was a "misconception" the police did not acknowledge the issue and he wanted to stress the importance of not elevating the status of these young "thugs".
Last Friday African-Australian community leader Dr Berhan Ahmed told SBS News the stigmatisation directed at African youth was not helping the situation.
The African think-tank leader responded to Victoria Police's comments last week there was an issue with African youth crime.
