The Centenary property crime team have charged a man with multiple property crime offences and recovered more than $100,000 in allegedly stolen construction tools.
Police will allege between mid-February to mid-March vehicles and power tools were stolen from a number of addresses in Darra, Richlands, Inala, Pallara, Geebung, Forest Lake, Doolandella, Ellen Grove and Ipswich.
Extensive police investigations let to a search warrant at a Sandpiper Street address in Inala on March 15.
When officers arrived at the address, they observed a BMW at the front of the property with a 31-year-old Inala man sleeping inside.
Investigations are ongoing to determine if the BMW was stolen.
Officers woke the man and took him into custody before searching the property and locating a significant quantity of alleged stolen hand and power tools.
Police also located an Isuzu truck allegedly stolen from Geebung last month.
A 31-year-old Inala man has been charged with multiple offences including 19 counts of enter premises and commit indictable offence, six counts of unlawful use of motor vehicle, five counts of enter premises with intent, three counts of stealing, two counts each of receive tainted property and driving with a disqualified licence, and one count each of dangerous operation of a vehicle and possessing dangerous drugs.
The man was remanded in custody and is next expected to appear before Richlands Magistrates Court on May 14.
Investigations are ongoing.
Centenary Crime Team Officer in Charge, Detective Acting Sergeant Kama Burgess said police have begun returning the stolen property to the rightful owners.
"Some victims are small business owners," Detective Burgess said.
"To have a significant quantity of their power tools stolen has an impact on their ability to complete customer jobs, build homes and earn their income.
"Officers are aware of the impact these types of offences can have on victims and were determined to locate the alleged offender and return the items to their rightful owners as soon as possible."
Police are asking anyone who has been a recent victim of tool theft to please contact police with a description of the stolen property, such as serial numbers or identifying details, so the items can be returned to their rightful owners.
If you own tools and equipment police recommend the following tips to assist in safely securing them:
- Photograph individual tools and equipment and record serial numbers for identification purposes
- Colour code or engrave individual tools and equipment
- Ensure that all tools are physically removed from visible sight
- Ensure tools are securely locked away in a strong and durable boxes or cages, fitted with a strong quality tamper proof lock and latch
- Ensure that toolboxes are securely and strongly anchored or chained to the vehicle or trailer
- Install an anti-theft alarm system to storage compartments, toolboxes and trailers
- Park vehicles or trailers in well-lit areas and in places covered by CCTV surveillance system where possible.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
