De Graaf says there are on average about a hundred theft reports a year. “These are mainly about thefts of laptops, phones or bags left unattended.”

Open campus

He explains that especially at TU/e, people have to be extra alert because it is an open campus. “I understand why they opted for an open campus because it is inviting, but this allows people from outside - including thieves - to get in easily.”

This doesn't seem to be getting through to everyone yet. Earlier this week, De Graaf received another report of a theft in Atlas. “The thief had already left, of course, but right after this I went on a round through the buildings. Within just a few meters I saw that laptops, phones and bags were lying unattended everywhere,” he says. “This, of course, does make it easy for thieves.”

According to De Graaf, the university is working on a policy to better keep thieves off campus. What changes are involved and when exactly they will be implemented is not yet clear. “That will take some time.”

Lockers

In the meantime, he stresses to use lockers instead of just leaving stuff behind. “In almost all buildings lockers can be found around study areas. If you don't know where to find them then the receptionist can show you the way,” De Graaf says. “In the end, it still remains the user's own responsibility.”

If you see anything suspicious, call the TU/e emergency number: 040 247 2222. Then security can come to the scene immediately and possibly prevent theft.