By Margaret Maccoll
Noosa police are warning people to safeguard their valuables and lock up their cars after a string of thefts around Noosa carparks, boating areas and front yards.
Senior Sergeant Mick Doogue said people had become complacent and opportunistic thieves had taken advantage of the situation.
“People have been leaving cars unlocked and surfers are hiding keys where they are easily found,” he said.
“We’ve had a number reports of thefts in Noosa Heads National Park car park.”
Sen Sgt Doogue said thieves were watching and waiting for the owners to leave the scene, and then open unlocked car doors or use hidden keys to steal wallets and mobile phones.
“It’s difficult for surfers to take their keys with them, but they need to be careful and lock away valuables.”
He said lockable key safes that could be secured to cars were available.
Sen Sgt Doogue said reports had also been received of thefts from boats and front yards.
“People leave fishing rods and gear in their boats and yards. It’s easy grabbing for opportunistic thieves. These items that are readily available from shops are difficult to identify by the owner if they are recovered.”
Anyone who sees suspicious activity is asked to phone police. In an emergency, phone triple-zero or Police link on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
