There has been an increase in the number of cases of theft from vehicles, theft of vehicles and house break-ins in The Bahamas, compared to this time last year, according to the National Reported Crimes statistics.
Those statistics convey that from January 1 to October 11 of this year, there were 1,868 recorded cases of theft from vehicles in comparison to the 1,180 cases recorded in the same period last year.  This reflects a 58 percent increase.
Cases of stolen vehicles have not seen as dramatic an increase.  Up to this time last year recorded cases of stolen vehicles stood at 960 in comparison to the 1,031 recorded cases for this year, which reflects a seven percent increase.
The police force's Public Affairs and Communications Officer, Sergeant Chrislyn Skippings told The Nassau Guardian yesterday that the increase in cases of theft from vehicles and stolen vehicles are concerning.
However, she pointed out that the key to deterring these types of crimes is to remove as many opportunities for criminals as possible.
"We want to encourage members of the public to take all necessary precautions because these types of crimes are not area specific," Skippings said.  "Even things as simple as turning your wheel hard to lock, acts as a deterrent.  You have to make it more difficult for that criminal to steal from your vehicle."
Skippings urged members of the public not to leave valuable items left in their vehicles out in the open, indicating that it would be best to conceal or store away those items prior to arriving at their destination.
"What we find is a lot of people leave their valuables on the car seat, which is visible to anyone who is passing," she said.  "We always say in order for crime to take place criminals need an opportunity, they must have a suitable target and there must be something of value.  When people leave their laptops, phones and other items visibly in the car the opportunity presents itself for criminals to strike."
Skippings also pointed out that persons should avoid placing items in the back trunk of their vehicle, because this also provides an opportunity for thieves who are, "constantly watching."
In cases of stolen vehicles, Skippings identified that a trend has emerged of criminals targeting old and new models of the Honda Inspire and Sunny vehicles manufactured by Nissan.  She recommended that persons should engrave or mark their vehicles in a discreet place only known to the owner in order to assist police in recovering their vehicle if stolen.
A number of vehicles stolen this year have been recovered by police, according to Skippings.
Another type of crime on the rise this year is house break-ins, with 2,502 recorded cases for the year.  This time last year the number of recorded cases stood at 2,293, representing a nine percent increase.
Skippings was not able to comment on if there were any noticeable trends in this type of crime, but offered several recommendations for members of the public in this regard.
"Think like a criminal," she said.  "Walk around and inspect your home and see if you can break into it.  If you can get into your own home, then a criminal can get into your home twice as easily, if not three times as easily.
Some people love a lot of tall trees around their homes, but you should keep these low because they act as excellent [hiding places] for criminals.  Make sure the exterior of your home is well lit at all times, especially if you go out, and it is a good idea to keep the television on with some volume.  Also keep your blinds closed at night-time."
She added," Criminals bind together and they network.  Neighbors also need to network and get to know each other in order to build a relationship of trust.  Get to know the people and the cars that frequent your neighborhood."
She continued, "If you see a strange person in the area you should be able to contact your neighbor via their home or cell number.  If you do this you can keep the criminal element out."
Skippings commented that with the additional resources in place throughout New Providence, the police are addressing these types of crimes and are prepared for the upcoming holiday period.
"We have already increased our patrols and will continue to do so," she said.  "We are going to be out there and we want to let criminals know that those who choose to disrupt the peace will be caught.  We will ensure that the Bahamian public is able to enjoy the holiday period and every other day."

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