A HORSHAM jeweller has called for more closed circuit television cameras along the top end of Firebrace Street after a “brazen” theft on Wednesday.
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Matt Latus, of Latus Jewellers, said the shop had been robbed three times in the past 18 months.
Horsham police are investigating a smash and grab from the Firebrace Street jeweller on Wednesday.
Sergeant Jason Bergen said about 5.15am, unknown persons broke the side window of Latus Jewellers and grabbed a number of men’s watches from the display.
Preliminary police estimates said about 20 men’s watches were taken, worth $2000.
Mr Latus said after proper examination of stock, the estimate rose to more than $4000.
“It’s disappointing because we work hard,” he said.
“This sort of thing is going on quite regularly and as a business owner you’re fed up – I’m sick and tired of it actually.”
Mr Latus said the store had been operating in Horsham for decades and noted there had been a increase in incidents in recent years.
He said the previous break-ins had occurred about 1am or 3am and called the latest theft “quite brazen” in its timing.
“There’s been a definite increase,” he said.
“I don’t know whether it’s because of a drug problem or a genuine community problem but they’re definitely more prevalent now than they used to be.
“Our Stawell business was broken into about 18 months ago, with about $70,000 of stock stolen.”
Mr Latus said more CCTV cameras could help deter potential thieves.
He said he hoped Horsham Rural City Council would consider installing more cameras to help businesses in the city.
Council chief executive Peter Brown said after receiving a grant in December, council had proposed to install three additional cameras in McLaughlin Street, two between Firebrace and Urquhart streets and three on Firebrace Street between Baillie and McLaughlin streets.
He said council had worked with business and premises owners to get the cameras up and running and hoped this continued into the future.
Sergeant Bergen said anyone with information about the theft was urged to contact Horsham Police Station or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.