Police zero in on theft

A POLICE program that’s cut theft in half at Fountain Gate in just two weeks could soon make its way to Dandenong.
The Proactive Policing Unit partnered with the shopping centre and Casey Neighbourhood Watch to respond to an increase in reported theft.
Operation Distraction has included several information days and proactive patrols in and around Fountain Gate.
Officers are providing shop owners, business operators and customers with information about theft reduction strategies, including hand bag safety, store and shop-front arrangement and electronic anti-theft systems.
“It’s making sure that shopkeepers understand about setting up their shops and how it can contribute to reducing theft,” unit Sergeant Mel Blair said.
Police have so far recorded a 54 per cent drop in reports of theft in the area.
Sgt Blair said the operation was ongoing and they hoped to roll it out at other shopping centre trouble spots in Dandenong and Cranbourne.