Keep cars locked and valuables in safe places

A SILVER Ford ute was recovered late yesterday (January 3) after being stolen earlier in the day from a residential property in Hagelthorn Street, Wonthaggi.

It’s alleged the vehicle was involved in hoon activity at a school on Korumburra Road.

Police are continuing to investigate.

The latest theft comes as police are actively walking and driving the streets at night, and placing flyers on cars during daylight hours in a bid to deter the unsavoury behaviour.

“We are encouraging people to ensure their vehicles and belongings are locked – a few recent offences have occurred when vehicles were left unlocked,” Sergeant Ryan explained.

The consistent reminder comes as police patrolling the beach car parks in Cape Paterson, handing out crime prevention brochures highlighting the risks of preventing theft from motor vehicles, came across the exact thing they were out trying to prevent.

A mobile phone left visible on a dash mount.

“Often people do not even realise they have left valuables in their vehicles.

“The easiest way to prevent opportunistic crimes is to remove the opportunity. Lock your vehicles, remove valuables from vehicles, and ensure all windows are closed.”

If valuables must remain in a vehicle insure they are out of sight and secure – in a locked glove box, do not leave house keys or garage remotes in your car as they may be used in home burglaries.

“It is an offence to leave your car unlocked in Victoria and we can issue infringement notices.”

Investigations remain ongoing into a spate of recent thefts and attempted motor vehicle break-ins – anyone with information please contact Wonthaggi Police Station or Crimestoppers.

And whilst police continue to be highly visible during daylight and nighttime hours in a bid to deter crimes, residents and visitors can do their part simply by removing the opportunity and leaving vehicles locked.