Thieves target Subarus

Police are warning Subaru vehicle owners in the wider Dunedin area to take extra care after a spike in thefts targeting the marque’s models.

Otago Coastal Police has recorded nearly 30 incidents involving stolen Subarus since August, with a noticeable increase in October.

Inspector Sam Ramsay, from Otago Coastal Police, says the offending is frustrating and disruptive for victims.

“Offenders are targeting Subaru vehicles and we want to remind people to take steps to help protect their vehicles wherever possible,” adds Ramsay.

“It’s unacceptable, and while we’re actively following a number of leads, we also rely on information from the public to help identify those responsible.

"Our inquiries indicate offenders are commonly targeting vehicles parked on public streets, particularly in residential areas.

“In many cases there is little or no sign of forced entry, with offenders exploiting known vulnerabilities in some vehicle models.”

Police are encouraging people to park vehicles off-street, or in a locked garage, where possible, and recommend considering using a steering wheel lock, immobiliser, alarm or other visible security device.

Motorists are also reminded to lock their vehicles, even when parked at home, and to report suspicious behaviour around parked vehicles immediately.

Ramsay says many of the cars involved in the recent spate of thefts have been recovered but police remain concerned about the risk posed by stolen vehicles being driven on our roads.

“Simple security measures can make a vehicle less attractive to offenders and may prevent a theft from occurring.”

Police investigating the incidents say they have spoken to two people in relation to the thefts, reports Allied Media.

Anyone witnessing suspicious activity is encouraged to contact police. If the incident is occurring at the time, call 111 immediately. Information after the event can be reported via 105 online or by phoning 105.