Multiple tool thefts from vehicles and during break-ins have been reported recently across the Limestone Coast.

With power and hand tools being stolen from vehicles, commercial and private premises, including rural properties, police are encouraging people to photograph and engrave tools and personal belongings.

“Most importantly secure these items to prevent them being taken in the first place,” a SAPOL spokesperson said.

“Often people can be complacent and think they are not going to become a victim of this type of offending.

“Unfortunately, leaving these items unsecured makes it easy for opportunistic thieves.

“Please also keep records of serial numbers for your tools as this makes our identification and recovery of your property a lot easier.

“Police have recovered many expensive tools and have been able to identify the rightful owners using serial numbers, images and good descriptions and return their property to them.”

If anyone has any information to assist in the investigation of tool theft or any other criminal activity in the Limestone Coast, they can contact Crime Stoppers online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au or via phone 1800 333 000.

Information can be reported 24 hours a day and callers can remain anonymous.