Cairns is grappling with a significant surge in vehicle crime, with a staggering 45 cars reported stolen in just the first 19 days of the new year. The alarming spike has prompted urgent warnings from local police as the region confronts a fresh theft crisis.
Police Data Reveals Sharp Increase
According to the latest figures from the Cairns Property Crime Unit, the theft rate represents a sharp increase compared to recent periods. The data shows that thieves are overwhelmingly targeting vehicles where the keys have been left inside or the cars have been left unlocked. Detective Acting Inspector Jason Chetham confirmed the troubling trend, stating that many of these thefts are crimes of opportunity that could be prevented.
"We are seeing a large number of these offences where vehicles have been left unlocked or with the keys in them," Inspector Chetham said. He emphasised that this simple act of negligence is providing criminals with easy access to vehicles, fueling the current crime wave.
Hotspots and High-Risk Vehicles
The thefts are not confined to one area but are spread across the Cairns region. Police have identified several suburbs as particular hotspots. The stolen vehicles range from older models to newer cars, with thieves showing no specific preference beyond ease of access.
Inspector Chetham issued a direct plea to all car owners: "Lock your car and take your keys with you." He stressed that this basic security step is the most effective deterrent. Police are also urging residents to avoid leaving valuables in sight within their vehicles, as this can attract further criminal attention.
Ongoing Police Operations and Community Alert
In response to the crisis, the Cairns Property Crime Unit has intensified its operations. Officers are conducting targeted patrols in affected areas and following up on all reports. The community is being asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately to Policelink or, in an emergency, to Triple Zero (000).
The current theft rate, if it continues, projects a deeply concerning annual figure. This new wave of crime echoes previous theft crises in the region, putting residents and authorities on high alert. The police message is clear: community cooperation and personal responsibility for vehicle security are paramount in reversing this dangerous trend.
