As South Australians take advantage of Black Friday and Christmas sales, SA Police are reminding the community to take steps to prevent becoming a victim of parcel theft.
Data shows these types of offences increase significantly during this time of year, with reported incidents rising in recent years. Opportunistic thieves often target parcels left unattended on doorsteps or driveways when residents are not home.
Acting Assistant Commissioner John De Candia said "We know people are shopping online more than ever, and with that comes the risk of parcels being stolen. We urge the community to plan ahead and think about how their deliveries can be made securely. A few simple steps can make all the difference in preventing theft and protecting your purchases."
Parcel theft is not limited to one area, but some suburbs have consistently recorded higher reports of these offences. Mawson Lakes, Edwardstown, Morphett Vale, Mitchell Park, and Prospect are among the top locations where these crimes occur. Residents in these areas are urged to be extra vigilant during the busy shopping season.
Over a three-year period, the Western District has recorded the highest number of parcel thefts in metropolitan Adelaide, followed by the Eastern, Southern, and Northern Districts. SA Police are working closely with these communities to raise awareness and encourage preventative measures.
Nearly 90% of parcel thefts occur on doorsteps or front porches, making it essential to take proactive measures. SA Police encourage everyone to think ahead and make arrangements that reduce the risk of theft during this busy shopping season.
To keep your parcels safe, consider arranging secure delivery options such as parcel lockers, click-and-collect services, or having items delivered to your workplace. Tracking your deliveries and requesting a signature on delivery can also help ensure parcels aren't left unattended.
If you can't be home, ask a trusted neighbour to collect your parcel, and think about installing security measures like a lockable parcel box or home security cameras to deter thieves. These simple steps can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
For more information on crime prevention tips, visit https://www.police.sa.gov.au/your-safety/crime-prevention-and-security
