VIDALIA — The Vidalia Police Department received numerous reports of vehicle burglaries that may have occurred late Monday and early Tuesday.

The calls started just after 7:30 a.m. Tuesday, Vidalia Police Chief Joey Merrill said in a press release.

Eight different incidents were reported between 7:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Four of the burglaries were reported from Miranda Drive and four from Lee Street.

Merrill said investigators found that all of the victim’s vehicles were left unlocked and no forced entries were made. Out of the eight vehicles that were broken into, he said a total of five firearms were stolen.

Since January, several vehicles have been burglarized, Merrill said, and all of them where left unlocked.

“It is very important that if you leave anything of value in your vehicle, make sure it is locked or remove these items,” he said. “Our investigators are working diligently to solve these burglaries and we are asking the public for their assistance.  If you know of anything regarding these or any other crimes please contact the Vidalia Police Department, no matter how insignificant you think it is.”

Merrill said locals could take precautions to prevent being victimized.

“If you have cameras check your cameras regularly. If your motion lights go off, look for the reason, and if your dogs start barking check to see why,” he said. “Don’t allow yourself to be preyed upon. Help us combat this and other crimes.”

Merrill said to report any suspicious activity to the Vidalia Police Department at 318-336-5254.