Moorabool police have warned residents and motorists to be vigilant following a rise in thefts across the shire.
Inspector Brendon McCrory said the increase was “a concern”.
“We still have the problem where people don’t lock their cars … and leave things that shouldn’t be left in cars,” he said.
Number plates and tools are among the most sought-after objects, while money, handbags and electronics are also being stolen from cars.
Hotspots for thefts include Bacchus Marsh railway station, construction sites and rural properties.
Inspector McCrory said the problem was widespread, affecting the whole Police Service Area, which also included the Golden Plains.
He attributed the rise to opportunistic thieves, with statistics showing that vehicles are mostly hit at weekends and at nights between 4pm and 2am.
“We are finding a number of the offenders are not actually residents,” Inspector McCrory said.
“They are passing through from either the western suburbs or Ballarat, so they are using the opportunity via public transport to steal as they pass through the patch.
“The main thing is for the public to be vigilant. If they see someone who doesn’t fit or isn’t a local hanging around their street or construction site, report it to police as soon as possible.
“If you see suspicious activity, call the police or report it via Crime Stoppers.”
