The New Westminster police department is warning residents to be extra vigilant after a rash of car thefts in the Royal City over the last two weeks.
The thefts have been throughout the city with no discernible patterns or high-volume locations, said a media release.
Police investigators have noted a large number of the cars had small, easy to conceal items, such as GPS units and IPods in plain view. These items are like magnets for auto thieves who can quickly enter a vehicle and easily transport these items to where they will be re-sold for small amounts of cash or traded for drugs, the release noted. Police are asking the public to help prevent thefts by removing such items from their vehicle and making them less tempting targets for thieves looking to make a quick buck.
ICBC also has a number of tips for preventing auto theft and theft from autos. It recommends using anti-theft devices; parking in well-lit areas; removing possessions from the car; not keeping spare car keys in the car; not leaving the garage-door opener in sight; and waiting for parkade garage doors and gates to close before pulling away.
The police forensic identification unit is analyzing a number of items seized from the recent thefts, and investigators are tracking several suspects believed to be involved. Several arrests have been made, but charges have yet to be approved, according to the release.
