Wheels stolen from cars as owners sleep in Melbourne suburbs

Criminals are stealing the wheels from European cars parked outside homes in prime Melbourne suburbs as owners sleep. These are the places and the cars thieves are targeting.

Police in Williamstown and Newport have noticed a new trend of wheels being stolen from cars.

Police in Melbourne’s inner west have relaunched a specialist vehicle crime squad to combat a recent spike in thefts.

The specialised Maribyrnong and Hobsons Bay vehicle crime team has been re-established after a spate of thefts particularly in Williamstown and Newport.

While more than half of recorded offences are theft of registration plates, police say opportunistic thieves are now resorting to stealing wheels from cars in some instances.

Senior Sergeant Ely Reynolds from Altona police station said there had been six reported incidents since June where wheels had been stolen, half of which had occurred in October.

“A recent trend where wheels are being targeted and cars left on bricks is a key focus,” Sen-Sgt Reynolds said.

“Offences are predominantly occurring overnight when most people are asleep and offenders are less likely to be heard or disturbed. It is opportunistic, there is no sophistication about it.

“I know there is angst in the local community. We are aware of it and our vehicle crime team are focused on holding those responsible to account.”

The wheel offences are believed to be linked with at least two people responsible.

They have been taken from varying brands of cars including BMW, Mercedes and Renault.

BMWs, Mercedes and Renaults have mainly been targeted.

“It’s extremely disappointing at a time like this that individuals can be selfish and choose to be involved in this type of conduct,” Sen-Sgt Reynolds said.

“If possible park off-street, but we’re aware the availability of off street parking within inner city suburbs is extremely challenging.

“Wheel security nuts and street facing CCTV cameras can provide some protection.”

The theft of registration plates concerns police as they are often used in further criminal offending including thefts and deceptions.

Western suburbs police have also seen a series of tool thefts from utes, which criminals sell online for quick cash.

Sen-Sgt Reynolds said tradies are encouraged to engrave their tools to stand the best chance of recovery.

“To avoid being targeted, police remind owners of all vehicles to be vigilant and remove personal belongings and items of value and ensure your vehicle is locked at all times,” he said.

“Anti-theft registration plate screws should be considered as an alternative to standard screws as you’re less likely to become a victim of number plate theft.”