A quick-thinking car owner in Queensland was able to safely detain a thief that had gotten into their BMW X3.
The Queensland Police Service says officers were called to a Mount Coolum residence on the Sunshine Coast around 5pm on Sunday, July 21 after the X3 owner noticed a stranger in their car.
Police allege the man was trying to steal the X3, and once the owner locked him inside he damaged the driver’s side windows and door.
The 21-year-old Mount Coolum man was arrested, and police allege when they searched him they found drugs on his person.
He was charged with two counts of possessing dangerous drugs, and one count each of entering a premises and committing an indictable offence, unlawfully entering or remaining in a dwelling or yard, and possessing utensils or pipes that had been used.
He’s due to appear in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court on August 5.
“I applaud the car owner’s quick thinking to lock the vehicle to keep the man contained, rather than confronting the man himself,” said Sergeant Joel Bryant from Coolum Beach Police.
“It may not be safe to approach an offender yourself, so we encourage you to always call police instead.
“The car that the man allegedly gained entry to was unlocked, which is an important to reminder to always lock your vehicles, even when they’re parked in your driveway or insight.
“Opportunistic thieves target unlocked cars. Don’t make it easy for them. Please lock your vehicle and keep valuables out of sight.
“We also encourage you to install CCTV cameras, not only as a deterrent to opportunistic thieves but it also provides police with invaluable evidence for investigations.
“Your CCTV may be critical evidence to solve a crime in our community.”
