Crimestoppers: Police warn residents of carpark intruders – Braddon (30-31 July 2009)

ACT Policing has issued a further warning to car owners with parking in multi-storey buildings about their need to pay close attention to security after burglars targeted vehicles parked in a Braddon complex this week.

Between noon Thursday, July 30 and 10.30am Friday, July 31, two intruders entered the underground carpark of an Ijong St, Braddon apartment complex.

While it is not proved how the offenders gained entry, police strongly suspect that the two men followed a vehicle in via the remote-operated automatic garage door. Three vehicle burglaries were reported to police as a result of this incident, with property damage exceeding $2000 and a number of property items stolen.

This incident follows on from vehicle break-ins earlier this month in underground carparks at two apartment complexes in Turner and police believe the same two male offenders are responsible.

Police have conducted crime prevention awareness programs in those apartment complexes targeted and again would remind residents of their obligations to keep car parks secure and report any suspicious behaviour. Any suspicious males such as those in the attached images are to be reported to police.

Acting North District Superintendent Dennis Gellatly said that the vigilance of apartment residents is crucial to prevent unlawful entry.

“Every resident has a role to play in keeping the shared areas of an apartment complex secure,” A/Supt Gellatly said.

“If you see a door that is not properly secured, or suspicious persons looking to gain entry then report it to police on 131-444.”

Police are appealing for any witnesses who may have seen suspicious persons or activity around an apartment carpark in Ijong St, Braddon between noon Thursday, June 30 and 10.30 am Friday, July 31 to contact Crime Stoppers.

Anybody with any information about this crime or any other crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or Report Crime Online.