Police from the St Andrew North Police Division say they have intensified their efforts to combat the high rate of motor vehicle theft that is plaguing the division.
Deputy Superintendent Carol McKenzie, operations officer at the division, told THE STAR that though the problem is still a serious one, they have had a reduction in the number of vehicles stolen. He also pointed out at least 60 per cent of the vehicles stolen in the area have been recovered.
He highlighted an incident in which three men, who attempted to steal a car on Hileah Avenue in Havendale, on Saturday, were arrested and charged and a firearm recovered. The incident occurred about 3 a.m. He also told THE STAR that a motor bike that was stolen last week has since been recovered. "As they steal them, we recover them. So I think we are doing well," he said.
Increased presence
DSP McKenzie said the police have increased their presence and vigilance in the areas known to be frequented by car thieves. "More attention is being paid to certain areas like Havendale, Constant Spring Gardens, Sullivan Avenue, Merrivale Avenue and those areas", he said.
He said the vehicles that are being targeted include Toyota Corollas, especially the 'Kingfish' models and Honda CRVs. He also said motor bikes were also on the thieves' most wanted list as well.
He said motorists could complement the efforts of the police by being more cautious and alert. "You have people driving into their yards, parking their Corollas and then leaving their gates open or some people don't take the time to look around their yards before exiting their vehicles."
Do
you have a problem? Is something bothering
you? Write to