Residents of Hendra and surrounding suburbs are being urged to remain vigilant following a series of break-ins targeting secure carparks in unit complexes across Brisbane’s north. The string of incidents, occurring in late September, has prompted local police to issue a warning and safety recommendations to the community.
While the most recent reported incidents took place in neighbouring Ascot and Hamilton, Hendra residents are not immune to this trend. The proximity of these crimes to Hendra has raised concerns among local apartment dwellers and property managers.
On the night of September 24-25, thieves targeted a unit complex on Racecourse Road in Ascot, forcing open a resident’s storage cage and making off with valuable items including a toolbox, paintings, and sports memorabilia. The same night, another incident occurred in Hamilton, where perpetrators broke into a vehicle parked in a unit complex on Hercules Street, stealing a wallet after smashing the car’s window.
These events follow an earlier theft on August 30, where an electric mobility scooter was stolen from an aged care facility in Hamilton after intruders accessed the secure carpark.
North Brisbane police are actively investigating these cases and have released images of persons of interest related to the Ascot break-in. Authorities are calling on the public to assist with any information that could lead to identifying these individuals.
In response to these incidents, law enforcement officials are emphasising the importance of community vigilance and proper security measures. Hendra residents, particularly those living in apartment complexes with secure carparks, are advised to:
- Remain alert and report any suspicious activity in communal areas.
- Ensure all shared doors and access points are securely closed.
- Avoid storing valuable items in garage areas or storage cages when possible.
- Implement additional security measures for bicycles and motorcycles.
- Remove all valuables from vehicles or keep them out of sight.
- Double-check that garage doors close completely when entering or exiting.
Local police stress that maintaining and monitoring building rules around parking, storage, and common areas can significantly reduce the risk of these crimes.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
Quote these reference numbers: QP2401637275, QP2401634973, QP2401636425
Published 26-September-2024