ACT Policing apprehended a 19-year-old Kambah man after breaking into motor vehicles around 4.40am yesterday in Calwell (22 July 2015).

Officers from Tuggeranong Patrol attended the location after a call was made from a member of the public, stating that a male was in the area breaking into and rummaging through motor vehicles. The witness also provided a description of the offender.

Upon arrival, police observed a man matching the description fleeing the scene, and apprehended him a short a distance away. The man was also found to be in possession of a number of tools, a large knife, and items of property police suspected to be stolen.

The male was arrested, interviewed and was subsequently charged with a number of offences. He will face the ACT Magistrates Court in August.

The incident provides a timely reminder that vehicle break-ins are an opportunistic crime.

ACT Policing Tuggeranong Station Sergeant Jo Cameron praised the member of the public who contacted police after noticing suspicious behaviour.

“This person saw something that they thought was suspicious and contacted police immediately. In this case, that contact with police was invaluable.”

“To help avoid being targeted by thieves, we do urge people to take the time to check that all valuables are removed from vehicles, the doors are locked and secure, the windows are up and the sunroof is closed.”

“Even when your car is locked it’s not a secure place to store expensive items, and the time it takes you to remove your valuables and secure your car is time well spent,” Station Sergeant Cameron said.

ACT Policing is also encouraging the community to proactively report any suspicious behaviour, or suspicious loitering around car parks, both during the day and at night. If you have any information call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit act.crimestoppers.com.au. Information can be provided anonymously.