Gerald Lynch
Hume police are sending out a strong plea for residents to lock their car doors and take all valuables out amid an uptick in theft.
Broadmeadows, Sunbury and Craigieburn police make up the Hume police response, and have uncovered in a recent review that one in three reported offences of theft from motor cars involved items being left in plain sight, often in unlocked vehicles.
Hume acting Inspector Laura Woolfe said trends indicate even the smallest items of value are leaving locals vulnerable to theft.
“Unfortunately, even small amounts of loose coins in a car console can attract a thief,” she said.
“The best thing you can do to prevent thefts is to remove all valuables from your car and ensure it is locked at all times.
“The majority of crimes occur through opportunity and if there’s less opportunity for an offender to commit a crime it’s less likely to occur.”
Items being frequently stolen include wallets, phones, laptops, and large amounts of cash.
Stolen wallets containing personal information and bank cards have also led to an increase in fraudulent credit card activities.
While police conduct regular operations to target the issue, they say it’s important that everyone in the community plays their part.
Crime Statistics Agency data reveals theft from motor vehicle offences in Hume have increased by 15 per cent in the year to December, 2023, rising from 1733 offences in December, 2022, to 1983 offences 12 months later.
In April, a Broadmeadows tradie had approximately $5000 worth of tools stolen from his unlocked rear tool box.
Another tradie had approximately $3000 worth of tools stolen from his rear canopy, and an iPad was stolen from an unlocked car at Campbellfield plaza
Anyone who witnesses suspicious behaviour around parked vehicles should report it to police via triple-0
For any non-urgent reports call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
