Police are again encouraging people to secure their homes and vehicles after another spike in burglaries and thefts.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Acting Inspector Troy Martin said cars were being targeted at shopping centres - often during the day - and homes across a wide part of Albury being broken into.
Police attended two break-ins and five thefts from vehicles in a two day period.
"It would appear at this time that there are a number of persons getting around stealing property," Acting Inspector Martin said.
"People are taking the opportunity both in public areas and private residences, walking along and trying vehicles.
"If they are open they are taking items from those vehicles."
He said car keys are also targeted inside homes along with wallets, phones and laptops, with such incidents "very, very terrifying."
IN OTHER NEWS:
"Being a victim of car theft is not only inconvenient and time consuming, it can also be extremely stressful, through loss of personal property or a financial loss but also loss of your sense of personal security," Acting Inspector Martin said.
"We call on all residents to play their part in stopping the opportunity for these thieves to commit these thefts from cars by taking simple security steps.
"We rely on the community to be our eyes and ears, and report any suspicious activity to police."
Detective Acting Inspector Martin advised resident to abide by the following safety tips:
- When you leave your car unattended, even for short periods, close all windows, remove the key from the ignition and lock all doors. Remember, it's an offence under the Australian Road Rules to leave your car unlocked;
- Ensure that you have removed all property especially mobile telephones, clothing, wallets/purses, bags and money in consoles
- Never leave important identification documents or cards in your vehicle when it is left unattended.
- Use caution when taking goods to your motor vehicle in shopping centres. Some thieves watch owners take property to their motor vehicles and steal the items when they leave to continue shopping.
- Tradespeople who may not be able to remove items from their vehicles should try and secure their tools and equipment in locked cabinets or fit a locked canopy to their trays.
- Report any suspicious activity you see in your street or places you are visiting; people walking around parked cars without a purpose or trying door handles should be reported to the police.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000
