ACT Policing has issued a warning to residents of the nation’s capital after a group of teenagers allegedly stole almost 200 cars since the start of the year.
The community policing arm of the Australian Federal Police has detailed the extent of youth-related vehicle crimes being committed in Canberra, particularly those by one group.
Operation Minalton was established in February after a raft of reports of stolen cars since January 1, 2025, with police already identifying “more than a dozen teenagers and one young adult allegedly involved in multiple thefts”.
To date, almost 200 stolen vehicles have been reported to ACT Policing, with most of the thefts linked to the individuals it has identified.
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An investigation by the Proactive Intervention and Diversion team resulted in the arrest of seven teenagers between February 20 and 28.
Police allege the group of teenagers would enter unlocked houses and steal keys before robbing residents of their vehicles – most of which were targeted for being of high value.
The seven teenagers have subsequently been charged with various offences, ranging from driving stolen motor vehicles, failing to stop for police, joint commission aggravated burglary, and driving offences.
While six of the seven teenagers have been remanded in custody, a 16-year-old male was bailed to re-appear before court at a later date.
ACT Policing subsequently detailed the grim reality of the offenders, all of which had previously offended, often multiple times.
“All seven teenagers have come to police attention for similar offences and all were on bail or subject to good behaviour orders when they were arrested,” the media statement reads.
“The alleged offenders have been apprehended by police more than 190 times, and one boy has been charged in relation to more than 70 offences.
“Two of the teenagers have been arrested for breaching their bail conditions 11 times and one had been apprehended by police five times in the first two months of 2025.”
ACT Policing’s Officer in Charge of Proactive Policing, Detective Acting Inspector Heidi Wright, urged Canberra residents to keep their homes secure, even when they’re at home.
“While property crime, including thefts, is one of the most common crimes committed in Canberra – there are things we can do to make it harder for thieves,” Detective Acting Inspector Wright said.
“Lock your doors and windows even when you’re home. Don’t leave your car keys in an obvious spot in your home and don’t leave an unsecured key outside your home.”
The warning comes amid a sharp rise in vehicle thefts elsewhere, with Victoria currently experiencing its highest levels on record.
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