Two vehicles taken in one night as power tool thieves go on stealing spree in and around Hawick
Last updated 1st Aug 2024
Police are warning the public to remain vigilant after two vehicles were stolen in one night as power tool thieves went on a stealing spree in the Scottish Borders.
Officers are appealing for information following several thefts in the Hawick area overnight on Tuesday.
A black Toyota Hilux containing hand and power tools was taken from a property in the town's Orchard Terrace.
More hand and power tools were taken from a Mitsubishi L200 in the same street.
In Linden Crescent, hand and power tools were also stolen from a van, while in Douglas Road East two vehicles were broken into and more hand and power tools taken.
There was also an attempted theft from a van in Linden Terrace.
Meanwhile, a white Hyundai i35 was taken from outside a property in Croft Field, Denholm - less than five miles away.
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Detective Constable Alexander Blacklock said: “The thefts are being treated as linked and enquiries are ongoing to trace those responsible. We are asking anyone who saw anything suspicious to get in touch.
“We also asking people with private CCTV to check to see if they have captured anything that could help with our investigation. Motorists are also asked to check any dash-cam they have.
“Thefts like this are distressing and we are urging the public to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police."
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The appeal's been issued on the same day new figures reveal the soaring cost of rural crime in Scotland - up by more than a third to £1.8 million last year.
And comes just weeks after thieves stole two tipper trucks and high-value gardening equipment during a £100,000 raid on a council depot in Hawick.
DC Blacklock added: “Please make sure your vehicles are locked securely and don’t leave valuables on view. We recommend removing items of value, like power tools, and storing them in a safe place.
“Also, don’t leave vehicle keys near the door and consider using a security pouch for fobs.”
Anyone with information regarding these thefts is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting incident number 0695 of Wednesday, July 31st, or make a call anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Anyone with information about these thefts is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101 or via the Police Scotland website