Lock up your tools, police warn.
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SomeMeans
Tool theft is surging across Victoria, with 19,228 offences recorded in the 12 months to March 2025.
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After Box Hill police arrested a man who allegedly stole more than 200 tools, officers have issued a warning to people, especially tradies, to lock up their tools.
“This is unfortunately an increasingly common crime presently,’’ Box Hill police Constable Jake Keenansaid.
“Having your tools stolen often delivers a major financial hit to tradies, with expensive equipment needing to be replaced and upcoming jobs cancelled.’’
There has been a 36.6 per cent increase in tool theft over the past two years (14,078 in the 12 months to March 2023).
The majority of these are stolen from the back of work vans and utes, with offenders targeting unlocked vehicles. Tools left on job sites are also another target for thieves.
As such, police encourage tradies to:
If possible, remove tools from ute trays and the back of work vans. Store them in your shed overnight.
If tools are left in your vehicle, lock all doors, external toolboxes and windows. Also try to hide any tools from sight.
Park in a garage or well-lit and secure area if possible.
Remove tools from worksites once done for the day and store in a secure place.
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