Police have arrested more than 150 people on a range of offences following a month-long operation targeting criminal activity in the Logan area.
Operation Sierra Abraid was proactively carried out by officers across the district to address a spike in activity relating to stolen vehicles and break-and-enters.
The operation led to the arrest of 159 people on 286 charges. The charges related primarily to the unlawful use of a motor vehicle and unlawful entry of dwellings and business premises. Police also impounded 13 vehicles, located 35 stolen vehicles, executed 11 search warrants and intercepted more than 430 people of interest.
Detective Inspector Tod Reid said the operation was another example of police continuing to target criminal activity, irrespective of the events and circumstances associated with COVID-19.
"Operation Sierra Abraid was designed to proactively target both locations and people of interest who have been identified as causing significant issues for the community around unlawful use of a motor vehicle and unlawful entry," Detective Inspector Reid said.
"We are committed to ensuring the ongoing safety of our community. We want people to feel safe in their homes. We don't want people fearing their cars will be stolen.
"It's unfortunate that even in these tough times, there are still people out there who will engage in this type of criminal behaviour.
"Operations like this are part of our role to help keep the community safe and stop crime. Our message is clear: if you want to engage in this kind of criminal behaviour, there's a very good chance you will be caught."
The 28-day operation was supported by specialist officers from the Public Safety Response Team, the Road Policing Unit, POLAIR, State Crime Command and the Dog Squad.
Tips for keeping your vehicle safe
Most car theft is opportunistic and there are several things you can do to reduce the risk of having your car stolen: Always keep your keys out of sight and never leave them lying around on tables, benches, bedside tables or key hooks in your home. Always lock your vehicle even when you are at home.
When parking in your garage, ensure both the garage and vehicle are locked. Park your vehicle in a well-lit highly visible area. Consider installing a car alarm to help protect your vehicle. Never hide spare keys in your vehicle. Always take your vehicle keys with you whenever you are going out even if you are leaving your vehicle at home. Always lock your screens, doors and garages even when you are home, sneak offences occur when people are home and vehicles can be stolen without your knowledge.
By adhering to the above you significantly reduce the risk of having your vehicle stolen. Additional crime prevention fact sheets can be found by visiting the Queensland Police Service website.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
You can report information about crime anonymously to Crime Stoppers, a registered charity and community volunteer organisation, via crimestoppersqld.com.au 24hrs per day.
