Unity RCMP report that over the past several months, reports of property crimes in Unity, Macklin, Wilkie and the surrounding areas have increased.
Police say these incidents involve thefts of motor vehicles and thefts of property from inside vehicles. While the RCMP have been responding to these crimes, members have noted that in some cases extra measures could have been taken in order to prevent these crimes from occurring in the first place.
In a press release the RCMP offer suggestions to residents for actions they can take to , deter thieves. These include:
• When leaving a vehicle, make sure the visible interior is empty;
• Consider investing in a vehicle anti-theft device like a car alarm;
• Always be sure to lock vehicle doors and close the windows;
• If possible, keep your vehicle in a well-lit area;
• Take valuables and other important items out of vehicles so thieves are not attracted to the contents;
• Lock parcels and other valuables out of sight if they must be left inside the vehicle; and
• Never leave the keys in your vehicle when unattended.
Police also advise that firearms and ammunition should be removed from unattended vehicles. They say this action could prevent criminals from having easy access to weapons. They also point out criminal charges for not properly securing firearms are also possible if firearms are stolen.
According to the RCMP, taking these preventative measures will make it as hard as possible for a thief to break into or steal a vehicle.
“This may not always deter a criminal, but they often target unlocked vehicles. Help yourselves and your neighbours by taking these simple steps to prevent crime,” the press release states.
Persons with information about these or any other crimes in local areas are asked to call the Unity RCMP at 306-228-6300, the Wilkie RCMP at 306-843-3480 or the Macklin RCMP at 306-753-2171. To remain anonymous call Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or *8477 on the SaskTel Mobility Network. Crimes Stoppers will pay up to $2,000 for information that leads to the arrest of person(s) responsible for any serious crime. Crime Stoppers is anonymous and does not subscribe to call display, nor are calls traced or recorded. Submit a tip online at www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
