mmg.com.au

Tatura has suffered its worst month of crime for many years after a spate of thefts from vehicles was recorded across the town.

Sergeant Darryl Phillips from Tatura police said the 49 incidents recorded in January were by far the most he had seen during his five years in the town.

‘‘Normally we have about 10 to 12 incidents a month in total. We’ve never had anything of this magnitude,’’ Sgt Phillips said.

‘‘In January we had 17 thefts from motor vehicles and two actual thefts of vehicles, one of which involved a burglary from a property as well.’’

Sgt Phillips said police believed other similar incidents had occurred, but had not been reported.

‘‘Both the vehicles stolen, one from Hogan St and one from Muirfield Ct, were taken for a joyride around town and then dumped,’’ he said.

The thefts have occurred right through the town from O’Reilly Rd in the south to Pyke Rd in the north.

One Tatura resident who suffered at the hands of the thieves said it felt horrible to know someone had been though their possessions.

‘‘We just never expected something like this to happen,’’ she said.

‘‘They tipped the contents of my handbag out and all that was taken was a few dollars cash.’’

The family’s car was stolen and although only driven about 20km, it needed four new tyres and work on the clutch and gearbox.

‘‘People have said to me ‘at least you’ve got the car back’ but unless something like this has happened to you it’s difficult to understand how it feels,’’ she said.

Sgt Phillips said residents should not leave valuables in their cars, particularly not on seats or where they are within sight, and to make sure their vehicles are locked.

‘‘A couple of the thefts have been forced entries but in most cases vehicles were unlocked and had valuables in clear view,’’ he said.

‘‘We suspect there are one or two individuals responsible for these thefts.

‘‘Police are seeking assistance from members of the public to identify those responsible.’’

Anyone with information about any of these incidents is asked to contact Tatura police station on 58243099 or call Crimestoppers on 1800333000.