An 80 per cent rise in number-plate thefts across Geelong has prompted police and SES units to offer free security upgrades beginning this weekend.
Four “Safe Plate” days would fit one-way screws to number plates free of charge to prevent further thefts, Victoria Police said.
The Indy reported in May that number plate thefts were increasing but the latest police figures indicated the trend was continuing around greater Geelong.
Police recorded 779 thefts in the 12 months to March, up nearly 80 per cent on the total for 2014.
Number plate thefts were often a precursor to other crimes including service station drive-offs and toll evasion, Geelong Sergeant James Constance said.
He urged vehicle owners to attend the Safe Plate events over the next four Saturdays, which police would host in partnership with the Victorian State Emergency Service (SES).
“Something as simple as fitting your car with one-way screws can mean the difference between becoming a victim or not,” Sgt Constance said.
“It can also prevent other crimes from occurring in your community.
“We’re pleased to be working with members of the Geelong, South Barwon, Corio and Bellarine SES units to educate people and stamp out number plate theft.
“Getting one-way screws fitted to your car is free and only takes 10 minutes and we encourage everyone to jump on board and attend one of our events.”
Victoria Police said locations and dates for Safe Plate days were: Newcomb Shopping Centre, Saturday 16 July; Portarlington and Drysdale football grounds, Saturday 23 July; North Geelong Bunnings, 30 July; and Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre, 6 August.
