THIEVES have broken in to more than 30 vehicles across Melville city council in less than a week.

Police say this “concerning” level of burglaries has become normal.

Palmyra police officer-in-charge Gavin Radice told the Herald there were 31 vehicle burglaries over five days from Friday April 24 to Wednesday this week.

There were nine burglaries of homes and businesses over the same period.

“It’s not that unusual to have that many thefts over a week,” Senior Sergeant Radice says.

“But it is definitely concerning.”

Earlier this week, two cars were broken in to at a Garden City shopping centre car park and tools taken.

Snr Sgt Radice says thieves are targeting work vehicles and he warns all drivers to remove valuables and lock their cars.

He refused to provide the total number of burglaries so far this year saying “it would take hours and hours” to collate the figures.

To report suspicious behaviour, call WA Police on 131 444 or crime stoppers on 1800 333 000.

by EMMIE DOWLING