Lock up your cars

By Tania Martin
Yarra Ranges police last week mounted an operation to reduce crime figures.
Mooroolbark’s Sergeant Lee Nicholas said there had been a significant jump in the number of stolen cars reported.
He said thefts from vehicles had also continued to be a problem.
Sgt Nicholas said motorists needed to make sure their cars are locked and all valuables are kept out of sight.
He said residents also needed to be careful where they park their cars and ensure alarms are used.
“Motorists should also use steering wheel locks if they have them,” Sgt Nicholas said.
He said another good tip was to park in well-lit areas.
Sgt Nicholas is also calling for the locals to report any suspicious behaviour surrounding parked cars.
“Generally these cars are being pinched by offenders in their teens and they use them for burn-outs and end up wrapping them around a pole somewhere,” he said.
“We have done doorknocks and found people have heard something but didn’t want to bother us.”
But Sgt Nicholas said the only way these thieves are going to get caught is if residents report any suspicious behaviour when it happens.
He is urging anyone who may have any information on thefts to call their local police station.