Worrying Trend Emerges Days Before Christmas in Melbourne
Residents in Melbourne are urged to stay vigilant as parcel thefts rise just before Christmas
Melbourne, Australia, Parcel Theft, Porch Pirates, Christmas
Melbourne: As Christmas approaches, folks are rushing to finish their online shopping. But there’s a troubling trend popping up—parcel thefts from doorsteps, often called “porch pirates.”
It all started mid-December when someone shared a video online of a guy snatching a package right off a porch. The clip served as a heads-up for others to be careful.
In the footage, a man in a black outfit casually strolls up to a house, bends down to grab a parcel, and then bolts with it. The post warned, “Porch pirates are out. Be careful with your deliveries.”
Sadly, this isn’t just a one-off incident. Just days later, another resident in Ivanhoe found their packages missing when they got home. They checked their security camera and saw a woman swiping small parcels and stuffing them into her bag.
“Thanks for ruining my day,” the victim lamented on Reddit, echoing the frustration many feel about these thieves.
People online didn’t hold back, calling these porch pirates “scum” and criticizing their actions, especially so close to the holidays. “What rotten behavior,” one commenter said. “That could be a kid’s presents for all she knows.”
In response to the rising thefts, a spokesperson from Australia Post advised residents to take precautions. They emphasized that stealing mail is a crime and encouraged anyone who suspects theft to contact the police.
They also suggested alternatives for delivery, like redirecting parcels to local Post Offices or using secure parcel lockers. It’s all about keeping those holiday gifts safe!
NewsWire has reached out to Victoria Police for further comments on this issue.