Police issue reminder to guard against vehicle break-ins

ACT Policing is again reminding Canberrans to be vigilant, remove valuables and secure their vehicles to protect against break-ins.  

Police have received further reports of vehicles and homes being entered illegally, valuables taken, and vehicles being stolen. 

These matters continue to be an investigative focus for members from Operation TORIC and the Proactive Intervention and Diversion Team. 

Detective Acting Inspector Elizabeth Swain said vehicle break-ins are opportunistic crimes, but there are several things people can do to limit the chances of a break-in.  

“It is almost impossible to hot wire a car with new car security,” Detective Acting Inspector Swain said.  

“Often, for a car to be stolen the offenders need keys, and they are often getting keys from people's homes, garages, or vehicles.  

“People should always close all windows and never leave any valuables in a car - wallets, phones, and power tools are common items taken.  

“Always take your car keys with you, and when at home leave them in a secure place. Spare keys and garage remotes should never be hidden in the vehicle or left in obvious locations, like on the kitchen bench. 

“Make sure that you are locking your home even when you are there - police are seeing more home break-ins while people are home.” 

Police recommend keeping a record of your car's details, such as registration, make, model, year, colour, VIN and engine number, in a secure location. 

If you have any information in regard to vehicle break-ins, please contact ACT Policing on 131 444, or make a report to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or via the Crime Stoppers ACT website.

Information can be provided anonymously. 

MEDIA ENQUIRIES  

POLICE MEDIA — (02) 5126 9070,  act-police-media@afp.gov.au