Police will be boosting residential patrols and ramping up crime prevention efforts over the Summer holidays as part of a state-wide focus on preventing home break-ins.
As part of Operation Victor Unison, officers will conduct additional patrols in suburban and residential areas to deter and disrupt thieves over the holiday period.
Police typically see a rise in residential properties being targeted by opportunistic thieves seeking to exploit unattended or unsecure premises as Queenslanders head out on holidays.
December 2022 and January 2023 recorded the highest number of reported unlawful entry of property offences in a two-month period for 2022, with a 4.5 per cent increase compared to October-November that year.
December 2021 and January 2022 saw an increase of 7.7 per cent compared to October-November 2021.
During this period, one-in-three unlawful entry offences saw the offender gain entry to a property through an unlocked door.
As Queenslanders enjoy the school holidays, police will be increasing patrols and crime prevention efforts including engagement sessions providing security advice, to ensure the public is best supported to protect their property.
Regional Operations and Youth Crime Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy said the QPS is committed to driving down property crime offences.
“Unfortunately, over the Summer period, we do typically see a rise in home break-ins, thefts and property crime,” Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy said.
“We know that a high visibility police presence can deter opportunistic thieves who commit the majority of property offences.
“Community safety is our first priority, and we know the impacts being a victim of crime can have, particularly over the holidays.
“That is why we’ll be stepping up patrols and focusing on deterrence of crime in residential areas as part of Operation Victor Unison.”
Acting Superintendent Rob Fleischer said there were a range of simple strategies which homeowners could implement to strengthen their home security.
“Home break-ins are often opportunistic crimes with one in three incidents involving the thieves entering through unlocked doors or windows.
“Before heading off on holidays, make sure doors and windows are locked, including your garage door and outside items are secured.
“I’d also encourage residents to go through the QPS Home Security Guide on the QPS website and review your security plan.
“While we know some basic security measures won’t stop all offences, it will be enough to prevent the vast majority of would-be thieves.”
Since March, Operation Victor Unison has seen an extra 44,000 hours committed to more than 118,000 police patrols and other engagement activities state-wide.
QPS’ Top 5 Home Security Tips
1. Ensure doors are always locked with a key even when you are home.
2. Ensure that all external doors, including your garage, are solid and fitted with quality deadlocks.
3. Always ensure car keys and house keys, together with mobile phones, handbags, and wallets, are stored out of sight.
4. Lock away items of value such as bikes, lawn mowers and garden implements such as ladders. Always keep your garage or shed door closed and locked with a key.
5. Consider installing perimeter security lighting including sensor lights.
