Vehicle theft increase

Last year, residents were terrorised by burglars who targeted motorbikes, for months on end.

As these incidents decreased, incidents of house burglaries increased, and once again residents were left fearing for everything they kept under lock and key.

Police sources have requested community members once again be vigilant with their motor vehicles after four cases of stolen motor vehicles were reported.

Police officials fear community members are becoming unmindful of their vehicle’s safety.

“Both theft from motor vehicles, and theft of motor vehicles have increased, and we want our community to be mindful of how they leave their vehicles,” said a police source.

The source explained that theft from motor vehicles had increased as people stuck to bad habits of leaving their valuables within their cars.

“Putting valuables under your seat is not protecting it! It gives thieves an excuse to break into your car not just to steal your bag, or cash, but to possibly steal your car as well.”

Two weeks ago, a vehicle was stolen on Allen Street, a second was stolen from a residence in Barry Hertzog Park, one motorbike was stolen from Paradise and another was stolen from the old railway homes in Fairleigh.

“Residents need to make sure they are securing their vehicles properly, even if it is at home. Make sure your cars are locked and windows are closed. Caution is one of the best ways of prevention,” concluded the source.

The modus operandi of the current thefts is being investigated, with the possibility of linking the cases and furthering investigations.

Residents with information have been requested to bring the information forward to the police.