Burglars responsible for over a dozen car burglaries Monday night in Lakewood may have used car lockout kits to gain access to some vehicles, one of the victims was told by police.

The vehicles – some which were reportedly locked – were burglarized in the Vintage Circle, Ridge Avenue, Somerset Avenue areas overnight, but the vehicles that were locked had no sign of forced entry, according to neighbors.

The burglar(s) made off with cash and more from the vehicles.

One victim tells TLS an item from his vehicle was found in Cabinfield Circle, a place he hasn’t recently visited.

Surveillance footage retrieved from an area home shows two males on bikes during the night.

In response to the burglaries, neighbors have decided to become more vigilant.

“A neighborhood patrol unit is being planned until the thieves are caught,” a victim told TLS. “If we don’t catch them, they will start breaking into homes.”

Over the weekend, there were reportedly about 10 vehicles burglarized in the Ocean Point area. It’s unknown if the incidents are connected.

One official said the best way to protect yourself is still to keep your vehicle doors locked.

“Burglars are looking for easy jobs,” an official said. “They’re generally not going to shatter windows during the night or do anything that makes noise, in fear of getting caught. They will continue to try door handles looking for that easy cash or valuables and move on to the next. So be sure you keep your vehicle secured.”

[TLS]