Wairarapa Police are working to track the offenders behind 29 car thefts in the space of two weeks.

The number of thefts is an increase on the 37 vehicles that were stolen in the two months to May last year. Wairarapa Area Prevention Manager Senior Sergeant Gill Flower said the recent rise is believed to be down to groups of criminals operating in the area.

“There’s no reason behind some of these thefts – they’re doing it for their enjoyment and don’t care about all damage they’re doing to the cars and the impact it has on people.

“Of the 29 recent cases, 25 have been in Masterton. Mazda Demios and Ford Couriers have been the main target for these offenders, and we’re asking people to take some additional steps to keep their vehicles safe.

“Some of the vehicles have been left unlocked, or keys left in places that are easy to access. People are also leaving items in their cars, and that attracts attention too. These offenders aren’t above stealing your prescription glasses, so the less you can leave in your car, the better.”

Senior Sergeant Flower said steering wheel locks were a cost-effective way to immobilise a car and make it less attractive to thieves.

“Some people can’t afford insurance, but a steering wheel lock will mean your car is undrivable. It’s a worthwhile investment, especially if you have to park your car on the road.

“We’re working hard to track these offenders, but we need the public’s help to do that.

“If you see suspicious behaviour, call 111,” Senior Sergeant Flower said. “The faster we get a report, the quicker we can act.”

Even in cases where Police can’t respond immediately, the reports helped Police track where offenders were operating.

“For us it’s valuable intelligence.”

“If you can’t report something straight away, please still tell us about it by making a report through 105.

“We’re working hard to find these offenders, but we need the community to help us.”

© Scoop Media