Tasmania Police is reminding motor vehicle owners to be vigilant by securing their vehicles following an increase in property theft from vehicles.  These types of offences have been a trend in recent months and that trend is continuing.

In the Southern District there have been 86 motor vehicle burglaries in the past month, mainly occurring in the Hobart, Glenorchy, Bridgewater, Claremont and West Hobart areas.  Of the burgled vehicles reported last year 250 were unlocked.  This trend appears to be continuing as 23 of these 86 vehicles were unlocked or unsecured.

“Generally, offenders are looking for a quick grab. If they see something visible and the vehicle is unlocked, it makes it very attractive,” said Detective Senior Sergeant Jim Semmens from Hobart Criminal Investigation Branch.

Property stolen includes items such as mobile phones, GPS’, iPads and iPods, cash, tools, wallets, bags and camera equipment.

It’s a timely reminder for owners to:

• remove your belongings from vehicles, especially valuables, or leave them out of view
• lock your vehicle and close all windows
• park your vehicle in your driveway or garage, if possible
• if you can’t park off the street, park under lighting or in a high visibility area
• secure your vehicle, even if it’s in your driveway.

If anyone sees people acting suspiciously around motor vehicles, particularly during the night, they should contact Tasmania Police at the time on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers anonymously on 1800 333 000 or online at crimestopperstas.com.au