Thefts of motor vehicles appear to be on the rise in Central Trinidad, warn Central Division Police, and they are urging the public to take all necessary precautions to protect their vehicles from theft.
According to an advisory issued by Central Division Police, the main areas where these thefts are occurring are Chaguanas, Couva, Cunupia and Freeport, especially between the hours of 8 pm and 5 am.
“Many incidents are taking place in open residential areas and in unsecured premises,” the police advisory notes.
It also adds that the vehicles of choice for thieves are Toyota Aquas; Nissan Tiidas; AD Wagons; and B-13s and B-14s.
The Central Division says there was a 29 percent decrease in motor vehicle larceny for the period 2020-2021, but that has changed in 2022.
The Police Service is encouraging motor vehicle owners to make it tougher for thieves.
“Vehicle owners are advised to be vigilant with their vehicles, especially at night. An alarm should be raised once suspicious vehicles or persons are sighted. In addition, anti-theft devices and alarms, including GPS tracking systems and automatic shutdowns should be installed in vehicles,” the advisory from Central cops recommends.
In the event a theft occurs, the Police Service says to call the police hotlines 999 and 555, or use the SOS Feature on the TTPS App.