Police warn vehicle owners over rising thefts, urge greater vigilance
COLOMBO – Negligence on the part of vehicle owners and parking in insecure locations are contributing significantly to the rising number of car, motorcycle and three-wheeler thefts reported across the country, Police Media Spokesman Assistant Superintendent of Police F. U. Wootler said.
Speaking at a special media briefing in Colombo on Friday (21), Wootler urged the public to take greater precautions to protect their vehicles and valuables from theft, noting that police were receiving an increasing number of complaints involving stolen cars, motorcycles and three-wheelers, with many incidents linked to avoidable lapses in vehicle security.
Among the common mistakes were leaving motorcycles unattended with their engines running, leaving keys in vehicle ignitions and keeping valuable items such as mobile phones, laptops and cash under vehicle seats, he said.
“Members of the public should avoid insecure and isolated locations when parking their vehicles and should use safe parking areas during both the day and night,” Wootler said.
He also advised vehicle owners to speak with security personnel before leaving their vehicles and, where possible, park in locations equipped with CCTV cameras.
Installing vehicle alarms and GPS tracking devices could provide an additional layer of protection, while owners should also maintain secure copies of photographs and other identifying details of their vehicles, he said.
Wootler urged the public to remain vigilant and immediately inform police if they observe suspicious individuals or activities in the vicinity of parked vehicles.
Members of the public can contact the police through the 24-hour emergency hotlines 119 or 118, he said.
“Public awareness and responsible behaviour can significantly reduce the opportunities available to criminals,” Wootler reiterated.
-ENCL
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