Advice for van drivers after 30 thefts across Wiltshire
Officers think the same group might be operating in other counties too
Wiltshire Police have confirmed more than thirty thefts from vans are being investigated at the moment.
They're offering advice to drivers on how to keep their vehicle safe after a spate of break-ins across the county.
Incidents have been reported in Salisbury, Wilton, Alderbury and Amesbury amongst other places.
Hampshire, Dorset, and Somerset vans are also believed to have been targeted by the same group.
PC Rachel Gunn, who is part of Salisbury’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:
“We are doing all we can to identify the individuals who are part of the group committing these offences.
“Also, we’re working closely with our neighbouring forces to share intelligence and ultimately bring these criminals to justice.”
The issue's also been spoken about by Salisbury officers during their latest Facebook Live session:
Advice for van owners
A series of tips have been shared of officers to reduce the chances of further victims of crime:
• Ensure you close all the windows and lock all the doors, even if you are working close by.
• Make sure any alarm system is working and consider using additional security such as steering wheel locks.
• Don’t leave tools on show if you’re leaving your van unattended and consider using ‘there are no tools left in this vehicle’ signs.
• Park your van in a secure location where it can be seen so that anyone approaching it will also be seen.
• Consider marking your tools so if they are stolen, they can be identified. Company-branded tools are also less appealing to thieves.
• Remember to take a note of all the serial numbers on your items and photograph them and use signage to warn that your tools have been marked.
• CCTV, lighting and alarms help to act as a deterrent to those committing the crime. Small CCTV cameras can be purchased and put in the rear of your van.
• If you see anyone acting suspiciously around vehicles, inform the Police
Please report incidents
Wiltshire Police is asking anyone who might have been targeted, to contact them as soon as possible, in the hope of preserving evidence for forensic examinations.
We're also asked to pass on any home CCTV or doorbell camera footage, in case it cold help with enquiries.
If we notice suspicious activity, we're also asked to call 999, so officers can be deployed sooner.