Police are on the lookout for two vehicles stolen in Whanganui over the past weekend.
Senior Sergeant Shayne Wainhouse said vehicle thefts were quite unusual in Whanganui so police were on alert after the two incidents and a failed attempt to steal a vehicle.
A white Ford Courier ute, registration SITCHO, was stolen in Aramoho on November 4-5.
A silver/grey Subaru Forester, registration ENJ891, was stolen in the Springvale area overnight on November 5-6.
There was also an attempt to steal a vehicle parked on the corner of Somme Parade and Kaikokopu Rd, an area where vehicles for private sale are often parked.
Police say vehicles are stolen for a number of reasons, including joyriding, to commit other crimes or to be broken up for parts for sale on the black market.
Theft from vehicles, also known as "theft ex car", involves the theft of property such as wheels, stereos and personal items - bags, briefcases, laptop computers, wallets, parking meter money etc.
Thieves gain entry to vehicles primarily by forcing locks or smashing windows.
Advice from police to reduce the chance of having your vehicle stolen or broken into includes:
- Keep your vehicle keys with you. Keep spare keys at home or at work.
- Don't hide a spare key on the car.
- Always lock your car, including the boot and, if applicable, the sunroof.
- Park in busy, open, well-lit areas.
- Use an attended, secure parking building if possible.
- If you garage your vehicle at home, lock the garage and the car.
To protect car contents:
- Don't leave things on display.
- Keep valuables (money, mobile phone, chequebooks, credit cards, driver licence) with you or at home - not in the glovebox or under a seat.
- Keep bags, luggage, coats etc locked out of sight in the boot.
- Keep a record of car stereo serial numbers.
Additional security options:
- Install a car alarm and electronic engine immobiliser (which prevents the engine from being started).
- Use a steering wheel club or lock, lockable fuel cap and wheel nuts.
- Etch the registration or vehicle identification number (VIN) on windows, windscreens and headlights.
- Have your vehicle sprayed with microdot identification.