It's truly disheartening when someone steals things that hold monetary and sentimental value from another person, but it becomes even more heartbreaking when these items are irreplaceable memories from a family's history.

The Victorian police have initiated an investigation following a distressing incident where a family arrived back at their residence on Scott St in Buninyong, only to discover that their home had been broken into and thoroughly searched.

As per the information provided by the police, the burglary occurred between July 16 and July 30, resulting in the theft of a personal collection of World War II medals and uniforms.

This theft has been particularly devastating for the elderly couple living there, both in their 70s.

A family discovered their home was ransacked, with the thieves stealing World War II medals and other items. Credit: Shutterstock.

The impact of the theft extends beyond just the loss of the commemorative medals and the cherished jacket that once belonged to the victim's father.

Reports indicate that the burglars also made off with various other items from the premises. These include a BMW sedan, valuable paintings, precious jewellery, delicate crystal glassware, and even salt and pepper shakers.

The stolen BMW was spotted near Toorak Rd and is now identified by the registration plate ARB069.

Detectives from the Ballarat Crime Investigation Unit believe that the thieves visited the property multiple times to carry out the theft and have shared images of the stolen items to gather information.

Anyone with any information or who noticed any suspicious activity in the area during the mentioned timeframe is strongly encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.

Your cooperation could help bring those responsible to justice and assist in recovering the stolen possessions.

Key Takeaways

• A burglary in Buninyong, Victoria, resulted in the theft of a personal collection of World War II medals and uniforms, with the victims in their 70s.
• Other items, such as a BMW sedan, paintings, jewellery, crystal glassware, and even salt and pepper shakers, were also stolen.
• The BMW has been observed near Toorak Rd and is now recognised by stolen registration plate ARB069.
• Ballarat Crime Investigation Unit has released images of the stolen items and urges anyone with information or who witnessed suspicious activity in the area to contact Crime Stoppers.

After decreasing incidents of residential burglary, recent data from the Victorian Crime Statistics Agency has brought to light a concerning trend. Burglaries and break-and-enter offences have shown a slight uptick between 2021 and 2022, marking the first increase since 2016.

This rise in offences reminds us that we shouldn't become complacent in safeguarding our homes and belongings. In fact, it's more important than ever to take proactive steps to enhance home security.

Burglars have evolved their tactics, targeting households and items more strategically, sometimes even going for unexpected objects that aren't typically associated with theft.

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Thankfully, there are simple steps that households can follow to enhance their home security. Alongside these measures, modern home security technology also plays a significant role in discouraging theft.

Experts recommend basic precautions like consistently locking doors, even when you're inside. For an added layer of protection, secure the perimeter of your property by keeping side gates locked.

Using quality door and window locks, installing outdoor security lights, and employing alarm systems have proven effective strategies, especially when combined.

We trust you found this article both helpful and informative, members! If you have additional home safety tips and advice to contribute, please feel free to share them in the comments section below. Together, we can work towards creating a safer community for everyone!

 

[Leenie]

I have made my home safer by having sensor lights, cctv , after having prowlers, wheelie bins next door set alight , neighbours having items stolen etc. A son in law for a police officer also helps as he advises what is happening in the area.

 

[Trudi]

I have smart light globes in the living rooms and all bedrooms. I use Google to turn several lights in mhy house on and of at varying times so that it appears that someone is home. There are also motion detection lights outside.

 

[Loubeauxarts]

My home was burgled twice several years ago and, for those who haven't been through it, it leaves one feeling violated and very vulnerable. Arguably the worst emotion is the anger at some low life going through your hard earned possessions and helping themselves to what they want.
For what it's worth, the best form of security is a couple of dogs, preferably small loud ones. Sure I have a security camera that covers the front and back doors but that would only help once they are inside.
Getting inside with 2 Jack Russell Terriers throwing themselves at the door or window would not be an easy task.
Some people believe that a big dog would be a better deterrent but, according to the SAS handbook, big dogs are slower and easier to subdue.
Smaller dogs are louder, faster and, in the case of terriers, almost impossible to get the better of.
Apart from the security they offer they are also incredibly good companions.

 

[Judy HB]

We have a Jack Russell, I’m sure he would defend me with his life!

 

[MariaG]

I was packing stuff in boxes to get ready for a house move.
They were locked in the outside garage.
Wasn't until it was time to do the physical move that we realised someone had done their worst.
I am pretty accepting in that I know I can't un-ring the bell of loss, but, it hurts when you realise things with huge sentimental value have gone, never to be replaced. My mum gave me a beautiful bicolour crystal vase as a special wedding present. It meant more to me because she got so much joy giving it to me and seeing me fill it with flowers. That was just one thing amongst many. It was awful.
The feeling that you get knowing someone has gone through your possessions is worse than dealing with the theft itself. I feel for those poor people and how upsetting this was for them.