Footage recorded by a home security camera earlier this week has drawn more attention to ongoing safety concerns in Hamilton.
It comes after two men were taped walking along Chatham Street, with one sporting a black T-shirt and the other a white hoodie.
Strangely, for that time of the day, both wore black gloves.
The recording shows one of the males approaching a vehicle parked in a driveway and attempting to open it.
After realising the car was locked, the pair walked away within seconds.
The vehicle’s owner, Mark Beattie, said no damage was caused and nothing was taken during the brief incident.
“They tried the door and then kept moving,” he explained.
While the incident did not escalate, Mr Beattie said it was not the first time his household had been targeted.
About 12 months ago, his car was broken into, with offenders leaving behind a homemade knife after rummaging through the vehicle.
“That’s why we put the cameras up in the first place,” Mr Beattie said.
“We also get a lot of parcels delivered, so it was about keeping an eye on what’s happening around the house.”
Despite having CCTV installed, Mr Beattie said cameras alone do not necessarily deter offenders.
“They looked straight at the camera and kept going,” he stated.
Mr Beattie added the fact the men were wearing gloves made the incident feel deliberate rather than opportunistic.
“If they didn’t have them on, you might think it was just someone trying their luck,” Mr Beattie told the Newcastle Weekly.
“This felt like they were intentionally walking the streets seeing what they could get.”
Although unsettled by the footage, Mr Beattie said he does not feel the need to report the incident to police, citing previous experiences.
“Last time we reported it, we were told not to touch anything until police could come out a couple of days later, but we needed the car for work,” he explained.
“You understand police have more urgent priorities.”
The incident follows broader concerns about safety in Hamilton, particularly around Beaumont Street, where residents and business owners have reported an increase in anti-social behaviour over the past year.
Acting Minister for Police and counter-Terrorism Paul Scully said occurrences like it served as an important reminder for residents to take preventative steps and report suspicious behaviour.
“Incidents [like this] are a good reminder to always lock your vehicle,” he stated.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their home.
“Anyone who is a victim of or witnesses’ criminal activity should report it to police.
“If you are experiencing an emergency and require urgent police assistance, you must call triple zero.
“Non-urgent matters can be reported to the Police Assistance Line on 131 444.”
Mr Beattie said he plans to upgrade his camera system and lighting and hopes sharing the footage encourages neighbours to remain vigilant.
“I shared it in case someone else on the street had their car touched as well,” he added.
“It’s about looking out for each other.”
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