Police note crime spike in suburb

SOUTH Toowoomba residents are being reminded to ensure their homes and vehicles are secure to ward off opportunistic thieves in the area.

Noting an increase in the number of reported break and enters of homes and vehicles in the suburb, police dropped information sheets in letterboxes in a proactive effort to curb the number of thefts.

It lists the eight most commonly stolen items, which include money, handbags and purses or wallets, mobile phones, gaming consoles, digital cameras, laptop or notebook computers, jewellery, and car keys.

“Of all property-related offences that occur in the Toowoomba police division, a significant proportion are break and enters of private homes and/or vehicles, or are stealing offences from homes or vehicles,” police said.

“Many of these offences are preventable, and now is the time to take notice of what precautionary measures you as a resident can take to help prevent this crime from happening to you.”

Simple measures such as ensuring doors and windows are locked and secure when leaving the property top the list, with that extending to residents even when at home.

Keys should not be kept in vehicles and windows should never be left wound down, and valuables should be kept out of sight and, ideally, not stored in vehicles.

Police advised that most car thefts were opportunistic in nature.

“The majority of stolen vehicles are over 10 years old and don’t have reliable security devices,” police said.

“Fitting a certified engine immobiliser offers the greatest protection for older cars.”

Police urge residents in all suburbs to keep watch for suspicious behaviour in their neighbourhoods, and report it to Policelink on 131 444.

Further information on how to protect properties and vehicles from opportunistic theft is available online at police.qld.gov.au or carsafe.com.au.