Fatima Halloum
Food delivery drivers are being warned to take extra precautions following a spate of thefts in the western suburbs.
The Westgate Proactive Policing Unit has developed a ‘Stay Alert, Stay Safe’ campaign that highlights theft risks and how to prevent them.
“Whilst police continue to focus on this issue, it’s really important that everyone in the community plays their part,” a Victoria Police spokesperson said.
“It doesn’t matter if you’re stopping somewhere for a few minutes – always take the keys out of the ignition, close all windows and lock the vehicle while it’s unattended.”
Police are advising drivers to keep their keys with them at all times, storing them out of view and away from external doors or windows and not to leave car keys unattended in bags or lockers.
Police have also warned against tagging car keys with names or addresses and recommend listing a mobile phone number instead.
The increasing popularity of food delivery services has left drivers more vulnerable to opportunistic thieves, police said.
While thefts of motor vehicles have remained relatively consistent, the number of thefts from motor vehicles was higher in 2021 than it was the previous year.
“This is a key focus for local police, who continue to examine trends and emerging issues that span local areas,” the spokesperson said.
“The community can be assured that Victoria Police is working tirelessly to reduce vehicle thefts in the western suburbs.”
A three-part video series aimed at highlighting the risks and combating thefts is currently being aired on the Wyndham Eyewatch Facebook page.
Police say anyone who witnesses suspicious activity should report it immediately to police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
