BELGRAVE police have warned locals against leaving valuables in their cars after a spate of thefts at a recent community event.
Kokoda Challenge participants returned to their vehicles in the 1000 steps carpark in Upper Ferntree Gully on Sunday to find valuables missing and windows smashed.
The challenge was a 30-kilometre round-trip, providing ample time for the thieves to strike.
Belgrave police Sergeant John McKenzie said the car theft issue was like the road toll.
“You keep putting the message out there to the public, to listen to what we’re saying, but it just doesn’t seem to get through,” Sgt McKenzie said.
Cars along Monbulk-Kallista Road were also broken into over the weekend.
“Just don’t leave valuables in cars visible,” Belgrave police Acting Sergeant Kevin Hogg said.
“It’s that simple.”
Anyone with information on the thefts should call Belgrave police on 9754 6677 or Olinda police on 9751 1241.
POLICE are investigating the theft of a laptop from a four-wheel drive in a Belgrave carpark.
The vehicle was parked between the Cameo Theatre and Ruby’s Lounge on Saturday.
According to police, the theft took place in daylight hours. Anyone with information should call Belgrave police on 9754 6677.
