Car thefts in Hillcrest remain a mystery

June 2, 2017

Car thefts in Hillcrest remain a mystery

A local says people in the Hillcrest area are reporting car theft related issues. Photo: Bayleigh Way

Thieves are leaving no sign of damage or intrusion after stealing valuables from cars parked in a North Shore suburb during the night.

A local who only wanted to be identified as Kiri was frustrated after finding her handbag, wallet, laptop, electronics, and musical equipment stolen from her locked car parked directly outside her front door.

“There was no sign of intrusion or destruction…I was very surprised. It then happened twice to another flatmate who also always locks his car,” she said via email.

“These thieves have a clever way of unlocking cars without damage.”

Kiri said the thieves then used her library card at the Birkenhead Library three days after the theft.

However, CCTV footage could not be tracked back to the time of the card’s use.

Constable Anthony Ellis said the thieves were obviously good at manoeuvring their way into the car without leaving any signs of break in.

“They could even be using electronic devices to sneak their way in but more commonly it would be a metal tool that slides down between the window and the door,” said Constable Ellis.

The New Zealand Police Government site suggests marking possessions uniquely.

“If you have engraved your valuable property or recorded the serial numbers of items, Neighbourhood Support can provide you with a warning sticker to put on a window.  The sticker will discourage most criminals from taking your property because they know there is a greater risk of getting caught or traced if they handle and attempt to sell identifiable goods.”

Since the incident, Kiri has contacted the police and continues to empty her car of valuables every night.

“We have put up five sets of sensor lights, five surveillance cameras, and the neighbour has also put up his own sensor light,” said Kiri via email.

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