By Alesha Capone
Police are calling on Wyndham residents to engage in basic security measures to help prevent thefts from houses and garages, as statistics reveal $7.25 million worth of items were stolen in the municipality across 12 months.
In the year ending March 2021, thieves stole 7118 individual items from Wyndham houses, garages, businesses and other locations.
Wyndham recorded the eighth-highest number of thefts in the state, with Melbourne placing first (11,151 items stolen) and Brimbank second (8398 items stolen).
Within Wyndham, cash and documents were among the most common pieces of property stolen (with 1089 items taken), along with 724 car accessories, 575 power tools and 504 tools.
Wyndham’s acting Inspector Steve Hayes said police have noticed an increase in offenders accessing houses through unlocked rear and garage doors, often in an attempt to find keys and steal a vehicle
“Burglars will often look for the most opportune time such incidents often occurring late at night or during the day when people are at work,” acting Inspector Hayes said.
“Members of the community can significantly reduce the chance of falling victim to these offenders by taking basic measures such as ensuring all their doors and windows are secured at night and when they are away from the home, considering home security systems and cameras that are very cost-effective these days.”
Acting Inspector Hayes said Wyndham police have been conducting proactive patrols focused on higher risk times and locations.
“Importantly we are working hard with our partners from our local Neighbourhood Watch groups in Tarneit, Point Cook, Manor Lakes and other areas to build community resilience through education and target hardening to prevent crime and reduce opportunities for criminals,” he said.
Acting Inspector Hayes said people going away for the school holidays are encouraged to register their absence on the Victoria Police website.
He said it was also helpful to keep vehicles in garages when possible, keep keys in a secure location and not leave valuable items in vehicles.
See www.nhw.com.au, www.police.vic.gov.au or the Eyewatch Wyndham page on Facebook for other security tips and community safety messages.
