DRIVERS are being urged to lock their cars after new statistics revealed Werribee, Hoppers Crossing and Tarneit as hot spots for car thefts.
Analysis of RACV insurance claims between January and December last year found that cars were more likely to be stolen in these three suburbs than anywhere else in Wyndham.
Werribee had the third-highest number of thefts of and from vehicles in metropolitan Melbourne, with 19 claims made.
Hoppers Crossing and Tarneit were sixth with 12 claims each.
Wyndham police have set up a crime impact team to tackle the problem.
Sergeant Ben Jarman said the team was focused on reducing thefts from motor vehicles.
Latest police figures reveal 1899 reports of thefts from motor vehicles were made to police in the year to March. Police also received reports of 509 vehicle thefts.
Sergeant Jarman said vehicle thefts were a growing problem and urged motorists to secure their cars to stop opportunistic thieves.
“This includes parking off-street, possibly in a garage or, if you have to park on the street, park in well-lit areas.
“Don’t leave your car unlocked, make sure the windows are closed and remove all valuables from sight.”
RACV insurance general manager Paul Northey said most vehicles were stolen between 6am and 6pm.
“This is an important reminder that thieves are opportunistic and will strike anywhere,” he said. “While some areas may have a higher number of theft claims than others, it doesn’t mean people can drop their guard.”
