A recent spike in car thefts has kept Victoria Police officers and dogs running, according to Victoria Police Staff Sgt. Andy Lacon.

Sixteen cars have been stolen in the past six days, Lacon said. “It’s higher than normal but it’s not outrageous.”

Police are focussing on the area of Fairfield around Cook Street.

Five people, all juveniles, have been arrested during the recovery of two different stolen vehicles.

Police are now analyzing whether there is a pattern in the thefts or a relationship between the suspects.

Victoria Police are putting “a significant number of manpower into it,” Lacon said. “We’re very busy with stolen cars.”

It appears the car thefts may be drug related however the investigation is still in its infancy, according to police.

ceharnett@tc.canwest.com