A SPATE of motor vehicle thefts in Leeton has both police and residents on high alert.
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Police have warned residents to lock up their vehicles, but to also take out all valuables following a number of recent incidents.
An owner of a white Nissan Patrol, which was parked and secured in Wandoo Street, had a small, portable fridge stolen from the back of his vehicle sometime between 11pm on Sunday and 6am on Monday.
A vehicle in Willow Street was also targeted in Willow Street between Monday and Tuesday this week.
In this case a white, 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander was parked under a carport when unknown thieves broke in and stole a wallet, cash and cards. Forensics attended to gather evidence.
In a third case in Wade Avenue North, a Mazda was in the process of being broken into by two thieves when the owner disturbed them.
Some details on their appearance were able to be given to police, with forensics also called to the scene to gather DNA and fingerprint evidence.
Thieves also managed to get away with quite a haul from a 2006 Toyota Hilux parked at an address in Tecoma Street late last week.
The owner, who had spent the day in Griffith shopping, returned home and left the items in the vehicle.
Sometime that evening or in the early hours of the morning, thieves have broken into the vehicle and stolen knives, a socket set backpack, iPad and various personal items.
Chief Inspector John Wadsworth warned residents to lock up and pack up.
“We want people to be aware this is happening and they should always be locking up their vehicles, but also taking out any valuables which may attract any unwanted attention (from potential thieves,” he said.
“Police are doing everything they can to track down the culprits.
“However, we need the help of the community. If you notice a crime happening, call Triple Zero. Sometimes people feel like they shouldn’t call that number as it’s for emergencies, but if you are witnessing a crime we encourage you to phone Triple Zero.
“It allows our police to respond quicker and gives them more of a chance to catch the offender(s).”
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Chief Inspector Wadsworth also reminded residents if they have information about any of the break and enters which have already occurred to contact them at the Leeton station or at Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Those who wish to remain anonymous can do so.
“We definitely respect people’s wishes if they do want to be anonymous,” Chief Inspector Wadsworth said.
Items were also stolen from a blue Holden Commodore in Tristania Avenue around 2.50am on May 26. In this case a window of the vehicle was shattered by the offenders to gain access.