Police say leaving valuables in parked or otherwise unattended vehicles is just an open invitation to thieves, following a rash of incidents just north of Ladysmith. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

lock your cars

Valuables stolen from cars left unattended near Ladysmith

Aug 20, 2024 | 1:26 PM

LADYSMITH — Local Mounties are investigating an apparent rash of thefts from vehicles in a specific area of town.

Since Friday, Aug. 16, Ladysmith RCMP say they’ve received 10 reports of items being taken from vehicles in the Christie Rd. area, in the town’s north end.

“In each instance, vehicles were unlocked and items such as cash, headphones, laptops, jewelry and wallets were stolen,” a release from the detachment noted.

In a bid to cut down on opportunities for thieves, police are again recommending people don’t leave any valuables in their cars and lock the vehicles when they’re left unattended.

Police say thieves will often target a car if items are visible inside.

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“Thieves will break in for as little as a few coins or a cigarette lighter. Typical items stolen from vehicles include purses, wallets, credit cards, GPS units, passports, house keys, cash, clothing and sunglasses.”

If items must be stored in a vehicle, police say the trunk is best as it is out of sight for passersby.

In addition to valuables, police advise against leaving anything identifying in a vehicle.

“You could become a victim of identity theft. Often, the thieves are only taking identification and credit cards from purses, but leave the purse behind. The owner may not realize a theft has occurred until much later.”

Finally, garage door openers inside vehicles are another potential hazard especially if your address or other information is also found inside the car.

Police recommend an alarm system, securing license plates with bolts instead of screws and ensuring vehicles are locked when leaving it for a period of time.

If anyone has information on the string of thefts in Ladysmith, they’re asked to contact the local detachment at 250-245-2215.

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