Currently the Albany area is suffering high rates of vehicle related crime, theft from cars and unlawful takings.
The locations that are experiencing the most incidents are those where vehicles are being parked by their owners for long periods of time during the day. This is mostly to allow occupants to use public transport or where they are working close-by or shopping.
We absolutely want people to visit the area, park, shop and use public transport with confidence, but we need everyone to play their part in reducing the potential of them becoming victims of crime.
Ideally any items of value should be removed from a vehicle or, if not possible, at least placed in the boot so that they are out of sight. Throwing a jacket, travel blanket or even floor mats over personal effects does not count! This merely acts to highlight that there is property of value in the vehicle.
We are also seeing a number of vehicles being unlawfully taken from the same areas. We know from speaking with some offenders that simple measures could mitigate the risk of losing your vehicle. The use of good old-flash-ioned steering locks on steering wheels can provide a visual impact enough to deter an offender. Stickers on windows and/or small LED lights on the dashboard, both announcing the presence of an alarm, have also proven to be a great deterrent.
Police take this type of offending seriously and recognise that the solution can’t be the sole responsibility of one group or agency. We have spoken with other agencies and non-government organisations who have a vested interest in the interest in the area and in providing a safe environment for the community. As soon as the current COVID-19 restrictions allow, this group will meet with the intention of providing real solutions to this type of offending.
NZ Police also needs members of the community to take active steps to do their part, if we are to collectively reduce this type of offending. So, if you see something suspicious, let NZ Police know. Call 111 if it is happening now, or 105 if it is a non-emergency.
If you have any information regarding vehile crime in the Albany area and would rather remain anonymous then Crimestoppers is another way of alerting us about what is happening. You can call free on 0800 555 111 or send a report via crimestoppers-nz.org.
Remember: this is our community. Let’s work together to Be Safe and Feel Safe.
Senior Sergeant Scott Cunningham
Area Youth & Communities Manager
Waitemata East District | Waitemata District
