Two teenage girls have been taken into police custody after reportedly stealing a vehicle that was subsequently found abandoned in Gordon Park.
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According to police reports, a 56-year-old man and a 19-year-old man were in the process of loading property into their white Holden Cruze station wagon on Monday, 1 May 2023, at approximately 5:30 p.m. when the keys were left in the ignition.
Seizing the opportunity, two girls arrived at the scene and promptly drove away in the stolen vehicle.
Shortly afterwards, the stolen car was discovered abandoned on Cowper Street, Gordon Park, still running. Witnesses observed the two girls fleeing from the vehicle as a vigilant member of the public gave chase and successfully apprehended them until the arrival of law enforcement officers.
Investigations revealed that the two girls were allegedly involved in multiple thefts from various establishments within a Chermside shopping centre, as well as other offences related to stolen vehicles.
A 16-year-old girl from Kelvin Grove has been charged with one count of unlawful use of a motor vehicle and two counts of entering premises to commit indictable offences. She is scheduled to appear in the Brisbane Children’s Court.
Additionally, a 15-year-old girl from Zillmere has been charged with three counts of unlawful use of a motor vehicle, two counts of theft, and three counts of entering premises to commit indictable offences. She is set to appear in the Richlands Children’s Court.
In light of this incident, law enforcement officials are urging vehicle owners to take precautionary measures to reduce the risk of theft. They have provided the following tips:
- Whenever possible, park in off-street locations, behind locked gates, or in secure garages to minimise the risk of theft.
- Ensure all doors are locked and windows are closed when leaving the vehicle unattended.
- Keep valuable items out of sight if left in the car.
- Installing an engine immobiliser that meets the Australian Standard 4601:1999 is highly recommended for maximum protection against opportunistic vehicle theft. However, it is crucial to keep car keys secure, as a thief with easy access can bypass this security measure.
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Anyone with information related to this incident or other criminal activities is urged to contact Policelink. Information can be provided online using the suspicious activity form at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or by calling 131 444. The line is available 24 hours a day.
Published 4-May-2023
