That is the message Murray River Police District Inspector Paul Huggett wants to impress on Deniliquin and district after learning of a number of unreported break-ins or attempted break-ins.
Insp Huggett, who is the Deniliquin Police officer in charge, said there has been a small spike in break-ins and attempted thefts filtering through the police incident reports.
But he said officers are also fully aware, because of talk within the community, that there may be many more not being formally reported for investigation.
Without those reports, he said the ability of police to protect the community and prevent crime is hindered.
“If you are not coming forward and reporting these crimes, or assisting police with their inquires, you are hampering the ability of police to protect the community,” Insp Huggett said.
“No matter how minor the incident might be, we need an accurate picture of what is happening so we can appropriately target our police resources.
“It’s the same with any crime, including hoons and those doing burnouts.”
His appeal comes after a Deniliquin resident returned home Friday last week to find two people in his home.
“Two people had allegedly entered the Victoria St home via a locked door - the locking mechanism was found on the floor,” Insp Huggett said.
“At about 12.35pm the victim returned home and heard noises inside, and two people fled through the same door with the victim in hot pursuit.
“It appears they were attempting to steal a safe from the home.
“Forensic examinations have been undertaken and police are still investigating.”
Insp Huggett said said since Wednesday last week there was also a report of a shed being broken into.
The offender/s attempted to steal a swag, which was found elsewhere in the yard possibly as a result of being disturbed.
Three separate reports of number plates being stolen or tampered with have also been reported in the same timeframe.
“In regards to the number plates, we encourage people to get down to their nearest hardware store and purchase tamper proof screws,” Insp Huggett said.
The Pastoral Times also understands a number of Deniliquin businesses were the target of thieves or would-be thieves earlier in the month.
Insp Huggett said crime can be reported directly with the Deniliquin Police Station - in person at the station or by calling 5881 9299 - or through the NSW Police Assistance Line on 131 444.
For those who wish to remain anonymous, crimes can be reported through CrimeStoppers on 1300 33 000.
“You have to stand up and be part of the solution,” Insp Huggett said.
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