Return to work Victoria: Crime warning after COVID restrictions relaxed

Crooks are coming out of hiding as Victorian’s return to work, police are warning. Here is how you can prepare.

Home invasions and car break-ins could be on the cards with authorities warning Melburnians returning to work could lead to crooks on the prowl.

Victoria Police are warning the sudden rise in workers returning to the office could lead to more home, car and bike related crimes.

Superintendent Anthony Silva said there will be extra police patrolling Port Phillip and Stonnington as part of a campaign to remind the community how to keep their property safe.

“We want to reassure the community that police are working hard to prevent and disrupt this

kind of offending,” Supt Silva said.

“Based on intelligence, police will be proactively tasking officers to patrol known hot spots within the Stonnington and Port Phillip areas at key times when we know this type of offending is likely to occur.”

In Stonnington and Port Phillip bike and car thefts have increased, with police identifying multi-level car parks and apartments the most likely targets for crooks.

Crime Stoppers Victoria chief executive Stella Smith said making small changes to your daily routine could prevent you from becoming a target.

“It would be nice to live in a world where we don’t have to lock anything, but the reality is

quite different, and we do need to protect ourselves and our property,” she said.

“At Crime Stoppers we have seen countless CCTV images of thieves using credit cards they

have stolen from parked cars.

“Don’t wait until your wallet is stolen from the ‘hiding place’ in your car. Always take the

wallet with you.”

If you witness any suspicious activity or crime in your area contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report online through www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.