Police step up patrols as thieves target southside suburb

Police have stepped up patrols after a recent spate of burglaries at Mansfield.

Police have warned southside residents to check their home and car security after a spate of burglaries at Mansfield.

POLICE have stepped up patrols after a recent spate of burglaries at Mansfield.

Holland Park officer-in-charge Sen-Sgt Kylie Doyle said the station had responded to an increase in burglaries and vehicle related offences in the streets surrounding the Mansfield Tavern during the past four to six weeks.

She said houses had been broken into by what appeared to be thieves looking for opportunities to sneak in unnoticed.

“These thieves are opportunists. If you are out in the backyard gardening, make sure the front is locked up,” Sen-Sgt Doyle said.

“Never leave any valuables in the car. Be more cautious and aware.”

Police have increased mobile patrols in the area and encourage residents to report any suspicious activities or persons to police on 1800 333 000 or to triple 0 if a crime is in progress or you are in danger.

Sen-Sgt Doyle also encouraged residents to review home and vehicle security measures even when you are at home and the vehicle is parked in the driveway.

“We are alerting people that there has been an increase in this crime in the area and we want people to be more aware and where they normally think something is not that suspicious, to report it to police,” she said.