Theft from motor vehicle accounts for nearly 10% of all offences in Victoria and is the highest category of offences across the state.
With reduced COVID restrictions contributing to increased movement of people around the community, Footscray Police have noted an increase in reports of theft from motor vehicles.
Police are seeing more thefts occurring in residential areas rather than at transport hubs or shopping centres, with opportunistic offenders targeting unlocked vehicles, and in some instances causing damage to vehicles to gain entry.
Residential areas in the vicinity of high-rise apartments are subject to increased incidences of thefts, and police are also seeing tradespeople targeted, as tools are highly sought after and often easily accessible in unlocked utes or trailers.
Footscray Police are asking all community members for their support in reducing vehicle theft, and offering some simple steps that community members can take to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of vehicle-related theft.
This includes locking your car at all times, even when parked at home or in the garage, parking in well-lit and secure areas if possible, and avoiding leaving valuable items in your vehicle. Tradespeople should also be mindful to lock their vehicles even when working on a building site.
Instances of vehicle theft as well as suspicious activity or loitering should be reported either via triple zero, Police Assistance Line on 13 14 44 or to your local police station. If you have information which may assist police in investigating offences please report this via CrimeStoppers on 1800 333 000.
