break ins and car theft in newcastle

Has anyone been experiencing/hearing about more car theft or break ins lately?

I had my car broken in to a month ago (parked in my carport...). Caught a man in my car port again at 5am today (hiding i believe, as i could also see his mates also scampering across the road, probably got busted elsewhere).

Im in Merewether, but mates have reported similar stuff in Mayfield and Newcastle East. MP Sonia Honery has been posting about rise in home break ins in Wallsend.

Whats the dealio?

Any anecdotes or takes?

Have a swell day friends!