The warning comes after officers witnessed a man acting suspiciously in a car park near the Muswellbrook Golf Club on Tuesday.

They stopped and spoke to the male, who was in possession of some property they believed were stolen.

Following a conversation, the man admitted that he had taken the goods from a car parked there. 

He was arrested and taken to Muswellbrook Police Station and charged with steal from motor vehicle. 

After being bail refused, the man appeared in Muswellbrook Local Court on Wednesday.

Upon further investigation, officers found that the car had been left unlocked.

“We wish to remind the community to secure and lock their vehicles when unattended,” a Hunter Valley Police District spokesperson said.

“Stealing from motor vehicles is a crime of opportunity with offenders just trying doors until they find one unlocked.

“So, take your valuables with you.

“Or, keep them out of sight day and night.

“Otherwise it just motivates offenders to keep stealing them.

“If you see anyone acting suspiciously, phone the Muswellbrook Police Station (6542 6999) and report it.”