Between June 13 and October 8, 16 enter with intent stealing offences relating to churches have been identified within the Gateway Patrol Group.
This month, five offences have been identified in the Inner West Patrol Group, primarily in Mitchelton and Keperra.
It is likely offenders are targeting churches due to limited security and offence locations do not have CCTV footage.
Crime Prevention staff from the Gateway Patrol Group have taken steps to reach out to places of worship and offer crime prevention advice, including the following tips:
Frequently empty cash from your building, however try not to make it the same time/routine every day. Police can provide ‘No Cash Kept on Premises‘ stickers that can be displayed around your buildings;
Ensure that if you have CCTV, that it is targeted at entry/exit points at normal head height;
Ensure your business contact details are up to date with QPS. Click here to view the QPS key holders