A recent string a thefts from unlocked vehicles in the greater Niles area has police agencies asking people to lock their doors.

Chief Jim Millin, of the Niles Police Department, said these types of incidents come in cycles and his department has seen an increase in them over the past couple weeks.

“It is all over the city. One night it is on the west side, another night is on the east, then the north and the south — it is hit and miss all over,” he said.

Incidents occur most frequently between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., he said.

The Michigan State Police issued a press release Wednesday saying this type of activity is on the upswing in the Buchanan, Niles and Howard Township areas.

Suspects are targeting unlocked vehicles and stealing money, electronics and other valuable items.

“These people are shaking door handles to see if they are open,” Millin said. “They are not breaking into cars that are locked.”

Even so, Millin said a locked vehicle door could act as a false sense of security for people. He is advising residents never leave anything valuable in an automobile.

“If I’m a criminal and I’m going to steal from your car do you think I care about your window?” he said. “It just isn’t safe to leave anything valuable in your car.”

If a crime is discovered, police are reminding citizens not to disturb their vehicle and/or surroundings. This will help law enforcement personnel conduct a more thorough investigation and collect valuable evidence, which may help lead to the arrest of suspects.

Citizens are urged to call police if they see suspicious vehicles or people in their area.