Mandurah Police have asked the community to keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour at local playgrounds, after a few pieces of expensive equipment were recently stolen.
Throughout September and October, two parks in the City of Mandurah were targeted in a spate of thefts.
There was significant damage and theft at Dudley Park Gardens on Newport Drive in Dudley Park between September 3 and October 11.
More recently, a swing was stolen from a playground on Channel View Reserve in Dawesville between October 8-16.
In total, four items worth more than $22,000 have been stolen or damaged.
City of Mandurah chief executive Mark Newman said the vandalism and theft had more than just financial consequences.
"The impact these acts of vandalism and theft have on our community is significant - not only the mounting cost but the effect on our community's pride and enjoyment, and disappointed families unable to enjoy our playgrounds," he said.
"Vandalism is an ongoing issue and we ask our community to please report any suspicious activities."
Senior Constable Paul Hansen said the missing equipment was "very distinctive".
"It looks like it's been cut and stolen professionally, in a way that it could be re-used at a later date," he said.
"It's depriving the children of playground equipment and we don't want this to be an ongoing thing.
"We are asking residents to keep an eye on their local parks and report anything suspicious."
Anyone with information is urged to call Mandurah Police on 9581 0222 and refer to the report numbers 151019 0750 6873 and 211019 0850 6873.
