Police Minister Mark Ryan and Brisbane Region Acting Assistant Commission Brian Wilkins today launched a three-part crime prevention video series featuring local Bayside resident Wally Lewis to help reduce motor vehicle offences in the community, Queensland Police say.
The first instalment focuses on vehicle security; an effective measure that only takes a few seconds and helps prevent thefts from and theft of vehicles.
In 2017, approximately 4,100 thefts from vehicles were reported in the South Brisbane District.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Wilkins urged members of the community to secure their vehicles when leaving them unattended, even when parked at home.
"A reduction in crime can be achieved by preventative methods being adopted by the community that help stop offences from happening in the first place," Acting Assistant Commissioner Wilkins said.
"Locking your vehicle doors and ensuring all windows are closed are basic, yet effective security measures to reduce the chance of having your vehicle broken into."
Securing your vehicle increases the effort and risk for opportunist thieves whose main technique is to try doors on multiple vehicles in large parking areas such as at shopping centres, on residential streets and at transport locations (e.g. railway stations, ferry terminals). Thieves look for quick and easy entry that doesn’t raise attention, knowing that eventually they will find a vehicle with an unlocked door or a window left down.
Police are urging locals, "don’t drop the ball", lock your vehicle to help reduce vehicle crime.
"This series highlights effective measures the public should adopt to help reduce vehicle offences in the community," Minister Ryan said.
"The videos focus on securing vehicles, removing property and securing toolboxes."
Member for Lytton Joan Pease praised police for their proactive work.
"This just shows the dedication and creativity of our men and women in blue in South Brisbane," Ms Pease said.
"While the campaign and slogan might be a play on words, police are serious about reducing theft from vehicles here on the Bayside, in the South Brisbane District and right across the state."