Queensland Police Service (QPS) has launched an online portal giving unique access to the latest information on active stolen vehicles across the state for the first time, allowing the public to play a crucial role in assisting police in tracking down car thieves.
The initiative aims to both inform the public and allow for the timely reporting of location information which can assist police in efficiently and safely locating stolen vehicles to protect the community, return property to its owner and hold perpetrators to account.
The online portal lists de-identified information for vehicles reported as stolen, including the make, model, colour, registration number and suburb from which it was stolen.
The information on the webpage is updated daily.
A search function is also available which allows the public to search for a registration, to confirm if a suspicious vehicle is stolen.
Regional Operations and Youth Crime Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy said the new feature was designed to empower the community to partner with police and assist with investigations.
"Information from the public plays a crucial part in investigations, and this gives the community greater tools to tell police the active movements of stolen vehicles and the actions of those behind the wheel," Deputy Commissioner Chelepy said.
"If you see a suspicious vehicle, members of the community can utilise this webpage, provide information to police and allow officers to take action."
Organisational Capability Command Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul Hart said the automatic digital refresh of the page each-day will ensure the public has the most up-to-date information.
"The active stolen vehicle list has been about a year in the making and will be regularly reviewed and enhanced by our team, to make sure police can most effectively partner with the community," Acting Assistant Commissioner Hart said.
The community is reminded that if a number plate on the vehicle is false or stolen, it may not appear on the stolen vehicle list.
If a vehicle or its occupants is behaving dangerously and putting members of the public at imminent risk, always call Triple Zero (000).
If the vehicle or its occupants appear suspicious, but the details of the vehicle are not listed on the webpage, police still encourage information to be reported via Policelink on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
The active stolen vehicle list can be accessed on the QPS 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 or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
