Thieves are prowling a leafy suburbd with one thing on their minds
Thieves are again prowling leafy towns in a bid to steal luxury vehicles.
Police in Cheshire police are urging owners to be vigilant after six incidents in recent days. Three cars were stolen and there were three attempts to break into homes which are being potentially linked to the thefts.
A gang has struck in an area stretching from Wilmslow[1] to Congleton. An investigation into the thefts has been launched, and while enquiries are ongoing officers are urging residents to take action to reduce their chances of becoming victims.
Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement
Advertisement
The location has been a target before. In April this year three men from Manchester were jailed for stealing cars in Wilmslow after travelling in convoy to the area.
Detective Inspector David Jarvis of Cheshire Constabulary, said: "Enquiries in relation to the incidents are ongoing and I appeal to anyone with information regarding the car thefts to get in touch.
Wilmslow - a target for car thieves. -Credit:Jason Roberts /Manchester Evening News
"I'd also urge car owners in the area to be vigilant, to review any security measures they have in place and to take steps to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of this type of crime. Advertisement
Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement
"Car thieves often scout for desirable cars in the day before returning to steal them at night, so I also ask residents to keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour in this regard and report any suspicions to us.
"Additional security devices such as mechanical steering locks and trackers are also effective in protecting vehicles from thieves."
It's important that you make sure you always lock your vehicle, even if you are just stepping away from it momentarily.
Vehicle crime is more than often committed when the vehicle is left insecure.
Fuelling up or popping back into your house to get something are perfect examples of how easy it is to turn your back for a moment and forget your vehicle is unsecured. Advertisement Advertisement
Advertisement Advertisement
If you have a garage, use it to keep your vehicle safe from thieves. If you are parked on the drive or roadside, think about how you could improve lighting, or consider doorbell cameras or CCTV.
If your car has keyless entry, make sure your key, and spare, are stored well away from the car.
If you can, use a faraday bag.
You can also turn off wireless signals on your fob if it isn't being used.
Considering these options will make life difficult for thieves."
Anyone who sees suspicious activity should report it to police on 101 or via the website[2], if you see a crime in action dial 999.
References
- ^ Wilmslow (www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk)
- ^ via the website (www.cheshire.police.uk)