This month sees the start of Operation Nitro, focusing on vehicle crime in Canterbury through the months of June and July.
"We know from our analysis of these crimes that a spike in these types of offences takes place at this time of year as winter conditions take effect," says Senior Sergeant Roy Appley.
"The operation is particularly focusing on the crimes of Theft of property from motor vehicles, Theft of motor vehicles and the unlawfully taking of motor vehicles. Police have pulled together a large number of resources from across the Canterbury Policing District to operate together to reduce the number of offences of this type being committed by the criminal fraternity, he says.
"Christchurch metro residents leave their vehicles parked on the streets, off road and in their driveways and as necessary in public streets in the CBD and at other entertainment venues, particularly in the early to late evening. Parking in these places unfortunately makes vehicles easy targets for criminals to steal from. When property of value is left lying in full view in a vehicle, it is often subject to theft. If you put property out of sight when your vehicle is unattended, it is more likely to be safe from thieves."
In a recent crime prevention exercise, vehicles parked in two local malls were identified by Police as likely targets for thefts because of expensive property clearly visible within them. Desirable property such as lap top computers, cameras, wallets, cheque books, sporting equipment and labeled clothing were all easily seen.
"In this exercise leaflets were left with those vehicles and where we were able, the owners of the vehicles were spoken to alert them that they were possible victims," says Senior Sergeant Appley.
This tactic will again be repeated over the next two months as Police across the District step up their visibility around known car crime locations. Police will also be investigating car crime by using other techniques. Although time consuming it is hoped that more offenders will be apprehended for these offences.
Police need public help, says Roy Appley.
"Please do your part and secure your vehicles at all times, conceal or remove the property you carry in your vehicle when you leave it and report all behaviour you consider suspicious especially around public places and mall car parks. If you don't think something looks right then it probably isn't. Call Police immediately."