Police are warning Kiwis to be vigilant as the the "silly season" approaches, with opportunistic crime on the rise.
Sergeant Paul McRoberts said opportunistic crime can ramp up at this time of year, with more people out and about, leading to cars and properties becoming targets.
"Police are aware of three cases in Hamilton in the past week where bank cards have been stolen from inside vehicles.
"In one case, more than $20,000 worth of items was taken from the vehicle including tools, a radar detector, an iPhone and two heat pumps.
"Almost $1000 was spent across six transactions using three separate cards stolen from the three vehicles."
He said several packages have also been stolen from doorsteps and visible spots on private property in Hamilton suburbs.
"In two cases, packages were stolen from the front porch of properties in Enderley and Baverstock.
"Waikato Police are making inquiries in the five above cases, including viewing any available CCTV footage, and speaking to any witnesses."
McRoberts said Christmas shopping is ramping up and online deliveries are arriving so people should ensure packages are delivered to a secure location such as a workplace, the rear of a property, or at a time when someone will be at home.
Some tips from police:
- Take valuable items and important documents out of your vehicle
- Always lock your vehicle
- Park in a well-lit area – or better yet a garage
- Consider installing security cameras
- Consider installing a vehicle alarm, if it doesn’t already have one
- Get packages delivered to a place where someone will be home to receive them, or to a work address
- If you do have deliveries made to your home, make sure you're going to be home, or have a secure location where they can be left.
- Be smart when disposing of packaging, so passers-by can’t see you've been buying expensive items.
McRoberts said anyone who is a victim of theft or witnesses suspicious activity should contact police.
"Keep your items protected this summer and stay vigilant."
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