After an increase in the number of Subaru vehicles reported stolen across the wider Dunedin area in recent months, Police are encouraging owners to take extra care.
Inspector Sam Ramsay from Otago Coastal Police says the offending is frustrating and disruptive for victims.
"Having your vehicle stolen can have a significant impact on people's daily lives, and we know these incidents cause considerable inconvenience and stress.
"Since August we've recorded almost 30 incidents involving stolen Subaru vehicles across the Otago Coastal area, with a noticeable increase during October.
"Offenders are targeting Subaru vehicles, and we want to remind people to take steps to help protect their vehicles wherever possible.
"It's unacceptable, and while we're actively following a number of leads, we also rely on information from the public to help identify those responsible.
"Our enquiries indicate offenders are commonly targeting vehicles parked on public streets, particularly in residential areas.
"In many cases there is little or no sign of forced entry, with offenders exploiting known vulnerabilities in some vehicle models."
Police are encouraging people to:
- Park vehicles off-street, or in a locked garage, where possible.
- Consider using a steering wheel lock, immobiliser, alarm or other visible security device.
- Always lock your vehicle, even when parked at home.
- Report suspicious behaviour around parked vehicles immediately.
Inspector Ramsay says Police are actively investigating the offending and working to identify those responsible so they can be held to account.
"If you see suspicious behaviour around vehicles, please let Police know. Information from members of the public can be crucial in helping us identify offenders and prevent further thefts.
"While many of the vehicles have been recovered, we remain concerned about the risk posed by stolen vehicles being driven on our roads.
"Simple security measures can make a vehicle less attractive to offenders and may prevent a theft from occurring."
Anyone witnessing suspicious activity is encouraged to contact Police. If the incident is occurring at the time, call 111 immediately. Information after the event can be reported via 105 online or by phoning 105.