Police are asking the public to help them catch those responsible for a spate of thefts in North Dunedin.
Fifteen cars have been broken into in the area in recent days, Senior Sergeant Ben Butterfield said.
''It's been a very long time since we have had something like this, which is obviously a concern to us,'' he said.
Items were taken from 12 of the vehicles.
''They all appear to have their quarterlight window broken,'' he said.
''We strongly suspect these would all be linked.
''The pleasing thing is very little items of value have been stolen, so people are obviously taking our advice of removing valuables from their cars.
''But, nevertheless, for the victims it's still quite troubling and an invasion of privacy and they still have to deal with getting their cars fixed.''
The thefts occurred from December 17 to December 19.
It was unclear if the offending took place on one night or throughout the period.
''We will be increasing our patrols and we will be working with Campus Watch and our community patrols, but the key to this is probably going to be the community helping us to prevent this happening again, because somebody has to know something,'' Snr Sgt Butterfield said.
''We would really be asking anyone that was out and about in that area over the weekend and saw anything suspicious to let us know.
''Or anyone who has noticed a friend or a flatmate return home with a number of coins or items that aren't theirs.''
People should continue to be vigilant, keep valuables out of their vehicles and make sure suspicious activity was reported immediately to 111.
''Make sure everything is out of cars,'' he said.
''Where possible, park on well-lit streets and if you see anything suspicious, call us as soon as possible so we have the best chance of catching whoever's responsible.''
- Dunedin police (03) 471-4800 Crimestoppers 0800 555-111
