Car theft warning

CASEY police have warned residents to secure their vehicles following a rise in the number of car thefts across the city.
Region Five Assistant Commissioner Paul Evans said police were focussing on reducing theft from motor cars after a 24 per cent increase from July to December last year.
Mr Evans said that while the number of thefts in the region was lower than other areas, the percentage increase was the highest.
“Police are very aware of the increase and will be targeting this crime to combat the trend,” he said.
“There are two types of criminals who commit these crimes — professionals who plan the crime and opportunistic thieves who are presented with an opportunity to do so.”
Mr Evans said police were urging motorists to secure their vehicles when unattended in a bid to reduce the risk of theft.
“Criminals are tempted to steal when valuables, such as handbags, laptops and wallets, are left on display in cars or when doors are left unlocked.
“Vehicle security should be at the forefront of motorists’ minds for every driving trip,” he said.
Mr Evans encouraged drivers to leave their cars in well lit and busy parking areas and lock the doors at all times.
“It is easy for drivers to be complacent when they only leave their cars for a short time, like paying for fuel.
“We are trying to change that behaviour by reminding the community that they must secure their vehicles every time they are left unattended,” he said.
Tips recommended by police to enhance vehicle safety include:
•Never leave keys in the ignition when a vehicle is unattended.
•Lock all doors and ensure the windows are completely closed every time you leave your car.
•Never leave any valuables on display — lock them in the boot or take them with you.
•Do not have a personal address on tags attached to your vehicle keys.
•Do not leave registration papers, driver’s licence or other papers or cards with a home address in an unattended car.
•Do not hide spare keys anywhere in the car.
Mr Evans called on drivers to immediately report theft from motor vehicle to police with the details of the items stolen, time and location of theft and car description.
Anyone who witnesses theft of or from a car is asked to contact 000 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.