A spike in property crime in the Arran-Elderslie area has prompted a response from South Bruce OPP.
Constable Matt Thorpe said people can expect to see more OPP cruisers patrolling the region bounded by Paisley, Chesley, and Tara.
"Unfortunately, we've seen an uptick of property related crime in the Arran-Elderslie area, so we are dedicating some patrols to address that," explained Thorpe. "Due to the incidents being concentrated in the Arran-Elderslie area, we've assigned additional patrols for that area to hopefully deter or disrupt the focus of crime in that area."
He explained there have been increased reports of fuel thefts and suspicious activity in the area.
"Recently we've seen an uptick in diesel fuel theft, as well as some recovery of some stolen vehicles," Thorpe added.
People should lock their homes, outbuildings, and vehicles and pocket the keys. It's also a good idea to ensure the property is well lit with limited visual obstructions.
"Possibly consider installing surveillance cameras on your property, or a laneway alarm," he continued. "Then you'd be alerted to someone coming on to your property late at night."
He asked everyone to report suspicious activity or vehicles to police, and keep valuables out of sight.
The South Bruce OPP is requesting anyone with information to call 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tipsters can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a secure web-tip at www.cstip.ca