By NATALIE GALLENTI-BREKALO
HOBSONS Bay police are urging motorists to lock up their cars and keep valuables out of sight particularly in and around Laverton railway station.
The warning comes after a recent spate of thefts from motor vehicles throughout the municipality.
Altona North Acting Detective Sergeant Glyn Woolley said the congested railway station was the area’s worst theft hotspot and he cautioned motorists to park their cars in the car park where CCTV cameras could capture images of would-be thieves.
Acting Det Sgt Woolley said cars parked on Railway Ave and Maher Rd were at a higher risk of being broken into as cameras were not located in those areas.
“Our biggest problem is people leaving valuables in the car,” he told Star.
“The message is don’t leave anything in the car…if they see a wallet or a laptop they will smash a window and just walk away.”
He said many of the thefts were opportunistic and not well planned out, so car owners should take as many precautions as possible when leaving their vehicle unattended.
“Sometimes it is people who wouldn’t normally do it, but they see a wallet or an iPad and just break into the vehicle.”
He also sent out a clear warning to parents to remove everything from their vehicles when dropping children off at school and kindergarten, saying these facilities have also been a recent target of thieves.
A recent post on the Hobsons Bay Eyewatch page revealed Robertson Crescent and Barwise St in Laverton have a high incidence of thefts, while Cherry Lake car park and surrounding areas in Altona are other hotspots. Meanwhile, registration plates are being stolen from the Spotswood railway station.
Police are recommending that motorists always check who is around the vehicle, ensure all valuables are removed before locking your car and making sure your car is parked securely and aim to park in highly visible areas.
Police urged residents to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 if they witness any suspicious behaviour.
