Residents of a retirement village on Albany Creek Road in Aspley were shocked to discover that intruders had unlawfully entered their premises, making off with a vehicle that also contained a crucial mobility aid.
On the evening of 20 February 2024, the perpetrators allegedly pilfered keys and a wallet before leaving with a significant haul: a 2023 white Renault Koleos vehicle, bearing Queensland registration plate 031IC7.
Adding to the distressing ordeal, the stolen vehicle had a wheelchair valued at approximately $3,500. The callous theft had not only deprived the residents of their means of transportation but also compromised the mobility and independence of an individual reliant on a wheelchair.
Theft Incident and Allegations
The incident, occurring under the veil of night, brought unwelcome disruption and anxiety to the peaceful retirement community of Aspley. The stolen properties represented material losses and profound impacts on the victims’ daily lives.
In the early hours of the following morning, the stolen Renault Koleos was spotted in troubling company – alongside another stolen vehicle, a white 2016 Hyundai Accent (registered as QLD: 792WXW). It appears that the stolen vehicles are linked to a brazen Enter with Intent offence at a service station in Murrumba Downs.
Appeal for Assistance
Faced with this breach of security and welfare, law enforcement authorities urgently appealed to the community for assistance. The public’s cooperation in locating the stolen vehicles and the missing wheelchairs has been instrumental in restoring the affected residents’ sense of safety and normalcy.
Call 131 444 or 1800 333 000 to report suspicious activities or have seen the stolen cars. When reporting to the police, provide these references QP2400301042, QP2400301126, QP2400301205.
The police also issued practical advice to mitigate the risk of future incidents:
- If you have off-street parking, use it. If possible, park behind locked gates or in a locked garage. Parking on the street greatly increases the risk of theft.
- Remove temptation – always lock doors and close windows when your vehicle is unattended.
- If you must leave valuables in your motor vehicle keep them out of sight.
- For maximum protection, an engine immobiliser that meets Australian Standard 4601:1999 provides the most effective deterrent to opportunistic vehicle theft. However, it offers no protection if a thief has easy access to your car keys.
Published 22-February-2024
