Man steals battery, stereo from Mercedes in Chelyabinsk

The owner of a Mercedes contacted the Traktorozavodsky police department of the UMVD (Directorate of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia) for Chelyabinsk. He reported that a battery, car stereo, music amplifier, speakers, and subwoofer had been stolen from the car parked near his home on Gorky Street. The total value of the stolen items was about 40,000 rubles (approximately $444 at current rates).

Police officers went to the scene and interviewed possible witnesses. During operational search activities, the suspect was identified and detained. He turned out to be a local resident born in 1998, previously convicted of a criminal offense.

The detainee explained that he noticed the car was unlocked and decided to take advantage of the situation. He sold the stolen items and spent the proceeds on personal needs.

A criminal case has been initiated against the man under Part 2 of Article 158 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation (theft). The investigation is ongoing at the Traktorozavodsky police department.

The Chelyabinsk police remind car owners of simple rules for protecting their property:

• Do not leave the car with doors open and the key in the ignition;
• At night, if possible, use a garage or paid parking lot;
• Avoid long-term parking in deserted and unlit areas;
• Equip the car with an alarm system and steering wheel and pedal locks;
• Do not leave valuables and money in the cabin.

In the event of a crime, immediately report it to the police by calling 02 or 102.