Failing to take basic security measures to prevent vehicle theft constitutes an offence, police said on Friday after a 34-year-old man reported his car was stolen while he left it unlocked with the keys in the engine.

The €2,500 car was stolen at around 6pm on Thursday as it was parked on a road in Larnaca.

Following the report of tis theft by the owner, who said he had left the keys in the engine and the door unlocked, police issued a series of measures to prevent vehicle theft.

They advised the public to always lock the car, remove the keys and make sure all the windows are closed after parking, even if they will stop only for a few minutes.

These steps should be followed even if out car is parked outside the house or in another spot considered safe, police said.

Furthermore, car keys should not be left exposed or where any third party can easily access them in the home, workplace or any other place visited.