By NATALIE GALLENTI
MELTON and Brimbank commuters are being encouraged to lock up their vehicles in a bid to keep thieves at bay.
Police from both areas were at Melton Railway Station last week to launch Operation Ours which is aimed at educating commuters about the importance of keeping their vehicles safe and secure.
Police said that through the operation they were able to engage with local residents about reducing motor vehicle related offences including theft of and theft from motor vehicles and number plate theft at the railway station.
While motor vehicle related offences across the Melton Police Service Area have decreased over the last 12 months, police are still urging residents to remain vigilant.
Melton Sergeant Nathan Parker said the operation aimed to prevent and reduce crime in and around the railway station.
“Many commuters leave their cars within the railway station car park each day. Don’t be an easy target – close all windows and lock all doors before leaving your car unattended,” Sgt Parker said.
“Remove all valuables from your vehicle as anything in view will make it a target for potential thieves. Time frames are also very important for thieves, so if you can make number plates a little harder for them to remove they will be deterred and move on.”
Police patrolled the railway station car park distributing ‘Look, Lock and Leave’ brochures to commuters and leaving them on cars identified to be at risk with valuables left visible. One-way registration screws were also distributed.
