Police in western Quebec are warning those who use Gatineau Park to protect their belongings from a group of thieves.

MRC des Collines says thieves have broken into about 30 vehicles in the park since October.

Police believe they are after wallets, electronics and other valuables left in the vehicle. Often, they said, this happens when cross-country skiers and those who snowshoe want to travel light.

"The ones who are doing it are well-organized," said Const. Martin Fournel.

"They don't take too much time and what they do is they poke a hole under a door handle to get in the vehicle and, in some cases, they will open the trunk and check inside."

Police say people must hide their valuables and keep their cars locked when using Gatineau Park or any other public space.