Thefts from cars in Sandy

Over recent days there has been an increase in theft from cars and other motor vehicles, particularly in the Sunderland Road area of Sandy.

Opportunistic thieves have been stealing sat navs, mobile phones, wallets and handbags, which were left inside cars in full view.

Detective sergeant Gary Maxey from the Bedfordshire Police’s Robbery Squad said: “More than half of the incidents that we deal with concerning car crime are opportunistic with thieves spotting something that could earn them easy money. 

“I’d like to advise people to take some extra precautions when out and about across the county. Vehicles with property on display are more likely to be broken into because thieves will risk setting off an alarm if there is an obvious pay-off. Even an empty carrier bag or a coat on the back seat is attractive to a thief as it may contain items of value.

“By the time the thief has realised there is nothing of value your vehicle has already sustained damage, which may be expensive, inconvenient and time consuming to repair.”

Bedfordshire Police have increased patrols in areas of high vehicle crime across the county and has implemented many successful initiatives in the areas of prevention, intelligence and enforcement. But they are reminding drivers to take simple steps to reduce the crimes.

You should close the windows and sunroof and lock the doors and boot plus only take what you need on your journey and whenever possible leave personal and valuable items at home.

If you must take valuable items with you keep them out of view and take them with you when you leave the vehicle, even if you think you will only be a minute.

It’s better to store items in the boot at your point of departure, not the point of arrival as you do not know who may be watching.

Laptops and satellite navigation systems are currently being targeted so keep them out of sight.

Remember to remove your stereo fascia because this is the best way to make your stereo unattractive to thieves.

Even small items like loose change and a packet of cigarettes are incentives to the opportunist thief.

Items with your personal details such as letters, bank statements and vehicle documents also leave you at risk of identity fraud so keep them out of sight.

If you have a remote locking system always double check the car is secure by trying the door handle.

If you have information relating to thefts from motor vehicle, contact Bedfordshire Police, in confidence, on the non emergency number 101, or text information to 07786 200011.

Alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111, or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.