Police urge vigilance following spike in car break-ins

ACT Policing is reminding Canberrans to be vigilant and remove items of value from their cars when left unattended following a recent spike in car break-ins. 

Police have received numerous reports of vehicles being entered illegally by unknown offenders, particularly high-end, high performance vehicles.

A number of these incidents have included offenders smashing the passenger’s side window and rummaging through glove boxes and centre consoles, targeting spare keys, fobs, and other valuables such as wallets, handbags, and mobile phones.

These matters are currently an investigative focus for members from Operation TORIC and the Proactive Intervention and Diversion Teams.

Officer in Charge of ACT Road Policing, Acting Inspector Ken Williams said simple precautionary measures could decrease the likelihood of a vehicle being broken into. 

“Offenders are less likely to break into a vehicle if they can’t see anything worth stealing,” Acting Inspector Williams said.

“Take the time to not only lock your doors and close windows, but make sure you don’t leave valuables in sight.

“Even if your vehicle is secure, visible items of value such as a wallet, phone, tablet, or even loose change can tempt a thief. The simplest way to deter thieves is to not leave valuables, including registration papers and garage remotes, in a vehicle.”

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