POLICE have issued a warning to motorists to secure their vehicles following a sharp rise in vehicle crime at Weinam Creek ferry terminal, Redland Bay.
The warning has come after a spate of thefts from cars and unlawful entries were reported in the area over the past four months.
The number spiked to 29 in July – a monthly tally not seen in more than six years.
Acting Senior Sergeant Tony Brown, from Redland Bay police station, said he estimated about half of the cars were parked overnight or for longer near Weinam Creek ferry terminal, including Meissner Street car park.
Queensland Police data revealed 105 cars parked in the Redland Bay area were targeted in the first nine months of the year, compared with last year’s total of 75 – an increase of 40 per cent.
Senior Sergeant Brown said while one offender, since apprehended, was responsible for much of the July car crime at the marina, unlawful entries into vehicles had continued to be a problem.
“The problem has been going on for a number of years, mainly because of the volume of cars,” he said.
Senior Sergeant Brown warned island commuters, including tradespeople who used their utility vehicle’s tray to store tools, to lock up and remove valuables to prevent thefts.
He said islanders could also help police by checking on their vehicle regularly to ensure narrow offence time frames if a break-in or theft was to occur.
Redland Bay station’s Senior Constable Peta Bell suggested owners photographed and engraved any valuables for ease of identification.
She said stolen goods advertised for sale and recovered by police could not be returned to the owner if they could not be matched to robbery reports.
She also urged motorists to keep their petrol caps fastened to prevent fuel siphoning.
Constable Ben Clinch said suspicious behaviour, including near Weinam Street ferry terminal, could be reported to police.
Redland City Council provides 475 secured long-term parking bays in two compounds off Banana Street for those who either live or work on the island.
The compounds provide mainland parking for about 10.5 per cent of the SMBI’s adult population and have a five-year wait list for spaces.
Those with information can call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. If an emergency, dial Triple Zero (000).