Police are urging residents in the New Forest, particularly in the Totton and Hythe areas, to take extra care in securing their vehicles.
Motorists are being asked not to leave valuables in their vehicles overnight and to ensure that they are left locked and secure at all times.
The advice follows a recent spate of thefts from vehicles in the Totton and Hythe areas.
In the last 30 days at least 10 vehicles which have been left unlocked have had valuables stolen from inside. Items taken include sat navs, binoculars, cameras, laptops and cash.
A number of the vehicles targeted were parked on the owner’s own driveways.
Sergeant Rick Gallagher, who is leading a specialist New Forest vehicle crime reduction team said:
“We have seen some recent success in dealing with the perpetrators of car crime in the area. However it has become apparent that in a large number of cases the victims have not secured their vehicle, making it an easy target for the opportunist thief.”
“My advice is to ensure that all valuables and tools are removed from unattended vehicles and taken indoors. Please also ensure the vehicle is locked and secure, even when it is parked on your own driveway. Never leave cash or valuables on display as even a few pound coins will attract attention. Our message is ‘if it’s not left in the vehicle, it can’t be stolen.’
He added: “We are also urging local residents to report any suspicious activity they witness around vehicles to police immediately.”
If you have any information about these incidents, or have witnessed any suspicious behaviour in the area, then please call the New Forest Vehicle Crime team on 101.
Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously. |
