Home burglars have stolen almost $100 million worth of goods and cash from Victorians in just one year.
Money, jewellery and computer gear were the most common items stolen in the 2013/14 financial year, with more burglaries reported in January than any other month.
Victoria Police Superintendent Tim Hansen said thieves often took advantage of homes left empty during the holiday period.
"Intelligence tells us that whilst a lot of people take holidays over the summer break, a lot have become complacent when it comes to their home security," he said in a statement.
Thieves often nab anything in sight, including car keys, Supt Hansen said.
He said residents could avoid burglaries by making it look like someone was at home.
"Get your neighbours to collect the mail and bring in the bins, close the curtains and hang some old clothes on the line," Supt Hansen said.
Victoria Police say they're targeting suburbs known to attract burglars.
HOW BURGLARS HIT THE HIP POCKET:
* Total worth of items stolen in 2013/14 - $95,998,296
* Home burglaries during the period - 28,515
* Average sting per victim - $5052
* No sign of forced entry in almost half (13,266 cases)
* Offender invited in - 21 cases
* Key used to enter - 360 cases
* Most common method of entry - through a door
(Source: Victoria Police)
Share
