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Cobram Criminal Investigation Unit detectives say they take a recent spate of burglaries and thefts in Cobram personally, and are focused on stopping the crimes from being committed.

Officer-in-charge Detective Sergeant Marcus Boyd said the Criminal Investigation Unit and Cobram police had been working hard to stop thefts from Cobram homes and businesses.

‘‘We feel for the victims of theft and we want to reassure the community that we have a number of strategies in place to stop thefts from occurring,’’ he said.

‘‘It is currently our number one priority.

‘‘It is unfortunate that we have seen a crime spike in the past two to three months, but through our intelligence gathering and other operations, we have been able to uncover a young criminal element in Cobram.

‘‘These people have no regard for the law and no regard for people’s property.’’

Det Sgt Boyd said police were regularly executing search warrants on the homes of alleged offenders and their alleged associates.

There are also plain clothed detectives and officers in operation in Cobram, who he said had uncovered important information relating to crime.

‘‘We are trying to be pro-active, as well as reactive. The public can be assured that we are not going to stand by and watch this happen,’’ he said.

‘‘Cobram CIU is working with detectives from Shepparton and Wangaratta CIUs to gather and share information.

‘‘What we also know is that some criminals are willing to travel to commit crimes, and we have been able to develop a targeted regional approach.

‘‘Detectives have a number of suspects in mind. We regularly attend premises around Cobram to flush out offenders, glean information and search for stolen items.

‘‘We are starting to have an impact and we will continue to keep the pressure on for as long as it takes.’’

Det Sgt Boyd said anyone who saw something suspicious should phone Cobram CIU or CrimeStoppers.

‘‘Even if you think it is something small, that piece of information may be able to help us,’’ he said.

‘‘You can remain completely anonymous, but we do want the community to report anything that seems strange or suspicious.

‘‘If you see a burglary or theft being committed, call 000 as soon as possible.’’

Business owners and residents are urged to secure their premises, cash and valuables.

‘‘Do not keep large sums of money on the premises — try to bank it as soon as possible,’’ Det Sgt Boyd said.

‘‘Home owners should be aware of locking their homes and vehicles at all times — do not keep valuable items in your cars.’’

●Do you have information about a crime? Phone CrimeStoppers on 1800333000 or Cobram CIU directly on 58712866.