The Saanich Police Department has issued a warning to residents about a recent spike in theft from vehicles.
According to a police report, the police department received 27 reports about vehicles being entered between Oct. 30 and Nov. 7.
Police said that most of these reports were linked to the north region of Saanich, primarily in the Cordova Bay neighbourhood.
“Almost all of the vehicles were left unlocked and none were reported to have sustained any damage, such as broken windows or locks,” said Cst. Markus Anastasiades in regards to the recent reports.
Thieves have targeted an array of stolen items, police say, including loose change, cameras, wallets, sunglasses and backpacks among other things.
Cst. Anastasiades adds that in most cases “the suspect(s) worked quickly and have yet to be identified.”
An investigation is ongoing into the sudden spike in thefts from vehicles, however, Saanich PD is advising owners in the meantime to follow their list of crime prevention tips.
These tips include:
- Make it a nightly habit at 9 p.m. to check on your vehicle.
- Make sure nothing is left in plain sight.
- Remove all valuable and personal items.
- Lock and secure your vehicle.
“While an empty duffle bag in the backseat may have little value to you, a thief will almost certainly want to see what’s inside,” concludes Cst. Anastasiades.
For more tips on preventing auto crime, Saanich Police is recommending residents visit https://www.baitcar.com/9pm-routine
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Graham Cox
