Lock up your cars, warn police

POLICE are urging people in the state’s west to be more vigilant to avoid becoming the victim of opportunistic thefts from motor vehicles. 

Operation Lockup has already seen a reduction in thefts from cars in Geelong and is now coming to the Bellarine, Portarlington, Drysdale and Queenscliff. 

As part of the operation, police will conduct patrols to identify any unlocked cars and contact registered car owners to the fact their vehicle is unsecured. 

Senior Sergeant Angelo Ferrara of Bellarine Police station said many thefts were opportunistic and local residents could take simple steps to deter thieves. 

“In May there were 22 thefts from motor cars and seven thefts of motor cars in the Bellarine area,” he said.

“Most of the offences occurred at night with offenders targeting unlocked cars that were parked in the street or driveways. 

“There are two vital elements for a crime to occur, the offender and the opportunity. Take away the opportunity. Unlocked cars and valuables left unsecured attract thieves to your neighbourhood. 

“Ultimately, these types of offences will be reduced if car owners can be more vigilant about how they leave their vehicles, particularly overnight. Don’t leave cars unlocked, items of value exposed and if possible, garage your car overnight. 

“The more difficult or less attractive you can make it for any would-be thief the less likely you’ll be a victim.” 

Car owners may also face a fine of $144 for an unsecured car. 

There are a number of preventative measures motorists can take including: 

• Remove all valuables, such as mobiles, laptops, wallets, iPod and loose change, when you leave your car 

• If you must leave valuables in your car, store them out of sight, such as in the boot. Do not hide them on arrival at your destination where thieves may be monitoring the area 

• Lock doors and close windows regardless of how long you are leaving your car 

• Park your car off-street if possible, possibly in a garage, or alternatively park in well-lit or secure areas 

• Remove GPS units and wipe suction marks off the windscreen so thieves don’t think one is hidden out of sight 

• Report any suspicious activity to police. 

Anyone who may have information about motor vehicle theft should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit www.crimestoppersvic.com.au 

For more tips on how you can avoid becoming a victim of theft from motor vehicle, download a fact sheet at www.police.vic.gov.au