By JONATHON HOWARD
NOOSA Police were shocked to discover almost 20 per cent of vehicles checked at Sunshine Beach and Sunrise Beach were left unlocked on Saturday 29 November.
Community crime reduction officer Constable Tara Nolan said Noosa Police checked 91 vehicles across the two suburbs to see whether they were locked and had any valuables in sight.
Of those 91 vehicles, 21 were found to be unlocked and one vehicle owner had left a mobile phone in clear view.
Constable Nolan said police issued 11 fines and 10 warnings to those motorists who had failed to secure their vehicles.
Police offices will soon be visiting Noosa Heads to carry out beach footpatrols and further vehicle checks.
Constable Nolan said the following few easy steps could help people avoid becoming a victim of “snatch and grab” crime.
“Police are encouraging local community members and tourists to ensure they secure their vehicles and remove any valuables as we are entering our busiest time of year,” she said.
“Police urge holidaymakers not to leave personal belongings unattended on the beach; this includes mobile phones, wallets, jewellery and car keys.”
Constable Nolan said the “Lock it or Lose it” campaign aimed to educate and remind locals and visitors to secure their cars and remove any valuables before leaving their car unattended.
“Remember, criminals do not go on holidays,” she said.
“If anyone sees any suspicious activity around vehicles, car parks or beach areas, they should contact police immediately.”
Anyone with information which could assist police should contact Crime Stoppers anonymously on: 1800 333 000 or crimestoppers.com.au
For all non-urgent police reporting or general police inquiries contact Policelink on: 131 444 or Policelink.qld.gov.au
