Five people were arrested and three stolen vehicles recovered in the police operation which took place in the Caringbah-Burraneer area on Tuesday afternoon.
Numerous marked and unmarked police cars took part in the operation, which caused traffic delays between 3pm to 4pm.
A police statement on Wednesday said officers "arrested five people in Caringbah and recovered three stolen motor vehicles after an ongoing investigation into a spate of recent of motor vehicle thefts and steal from motor vehicle [incidents] in the Sutherland Shire".
"Investigations are continuing," the statement said.
"It is interesting to note that in many cases people left their vehicle unlocked with valuable items in full view.
"There are several ways to reduce the risk of having items stolen from your vehicle, including:.
- Lock your vehicle and remove all items which will reduce your chance of becoming a victim.
- Use caution when taking goods to your motor vehicle at shopping centres. Some thieves watch owners take property to their cars and then steal those items once the owner returns to the shopping centre.
- Ensure you REMOVE ALL PROPERTY from view, especially mobile phones, clothing, bags, money (in the console) when you leave your vehicle. Either take it with you or lock it in the boot.
- When you leave your vehicle unattended for short periods of time, close all windows and REMOVE THE KEY FROM the IGNITION. Remember it is an offence under the Australian Road Rules to leave your vehicle unlocked.
- Try to park in busy well-lit areas & avoid parking in areas that have a history of motor vehicle theft or thefts from motor vehicles.
- Have an engine immobilizer or fuel cut out switch installed to restrict the theft of your vehicle. Research has shown this is the most effective way to deter a thief.
- Use a steering wheel or transmission lock to restrict the theft of your vehicle. This is another deterrent for thieves.
"Please remember it is your responsibility to lock and secure your vehicle, including your valuables. Items that are left in full view is only inviting thieves to steal your items.
"When wallets or purses are stolen, this has a flow on effect where the thieves go onto commit fraud related offences with the victim's credit card and in addition the personal information that is obtained is used to create fake identities in the victim's name.
Police would like residents to contact police if you see anyone acting suspicious in your street, whether they are on foot or in a vehicle. Contact Sutherland Police Station 9542 0899, Triple 000 or Crime stoppers on 1800 333 000."
