Thieves filmed stealing Christmas parcels seconds after delivery
Brazen Christmas parcel thieves have been caught on camera stealing packages from doorsteps as police warn such behaviour is becoming common practice.
Adelaide resident Matt Svensson was expecting a parcel at his home after receiving a message from a courier telling him his purchase had been dropped off.
But on his return it was nowhere to be seen.
An inquisitive Mr Svensson checked his home's surveillance cameras only to spot that it had been taken.
"I noticed there was a black Lancer with a spoiler, probably a later model," he told Today Tonight.
"Someone exited the vehicle, approached my front door and stole the package that was delivered."
The shocked homeowner is not alone and according to police the crime is on the rise, leaving thousands of innocent Australians out of pocket.
"That's quite common practice for people maybe scouting for leftover parcels, and as you can see from the footage it doesn't take long to actually get that parcel," Sergeant Warren Ameduri said.
"It doesn't take long, it can take a matter of seconds."
And thieves are taking advantage of the festive season, with an increase of online orders attracting criminals to homes.
According to the RAC, insurance claims jump 13 per cent over December and January as burglaries and break ins peak.
"Knowing that if it does occur close to Christmas, then a young child could be missing out on their Christmas present," Mr Svensson warned.
Police are now warning online shoppers to become more vigilant in preventing the growing trend.
"It takes three things for a crime, it needs an offender, it needs a victim and it needs opportunity, but if we minimise the opportunity there's less likely to be a victim of crime," Sgt Ameduri said.
Police have recommended getting parcels delivered to work, or picking them up from Australia Post.
And if that isn't feasible, they have suggested knowing your neighbours is now vital.
"Ask your neighbours to keep an eye on your house if you're holidaying," Sgt Ameduri advised.
With two and a half weeks until Christmas, Sgt Ameduri says keeping an eye out for your neighbours is the best gift you can give this festive season.
