By CASEY NEILL
Toyota and Nissan owners are being told to take care of their car keys on Fridays and Saturdays following a 100 per cent increase in car crime.
Dandenong police Inspector Bruce Kitchen said thieves were stealing about 25 cars within the Greater Dandenong Police Service Area (PSA) each week – up from about 12 per week.
He said officers were targeting the crime and urged car owners to keep their keys close.
“Over the last couple of months it has increased,” he said.
“I’ve seen a slow trend since the start of the financial year. They come in cycles.”
Insp Kitchen said thieves were targeting residential streets, shopping precincts and mechanics, and usually struck on a Friday or Saturday.
“The majority of cars that seem to be stolen are old Nissans and Toyotas,” he said.
“The ’80s and ’90s models are the most popular.”
He said thieves often stole car keys from swimming pools and other public places.
“They’re pinching them from change rooms or in offices when they see keys sitting on a desk,” he said.
“Members of the community need to secure their car keys.”
Insp Kitchen suggested investing in a locker at public spaces or removing the car key from the rest and keeping it in a pocket.
