The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force is ramping up efforts to tackle a worrying rise in vehicle thefts.
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Luke Defreitas told St Lucia Times that addressing this issue is a top priority this year.
“This is an issue we take very seriously,” he said. “We’ve increased patrols and launched targeted initiatives to combat these crimes. We’re also working closely with communities to share tips on how to prevent thefts.”
Defreitas explained that many thefts occur because vehicle owners leave their cars unlocked or even leave the keys inside while running quick errands.
“We’ve seen cases where people step into a shop or leave their vehicle unattended for just a moment, only to return and find it gone. Simple precautions, like locking your doors and windows and taking your keys with you, can make a big difference,” he recommended.
ACP Defreitas also advised vehicle owners to consider additional security measures, such as installing steering wheel locks and GPS trackers. Owners of vehicles with keyless entry systems have also been urged to avoid leaving their key fobs close to their cars, as this can allow thieves to gain access more easily.
The senior officer stressed the importance of community involvement in reducing vehicle thefts: “We encourage residents to report any suspicious activity near parked vehicles. Working together, we can reduce the number of thefts and keep our communities safer.”
Vehicle theft carries a penalty of up to 14 years in prison.
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