Rise in car break-ins

7 March 2011, 17:35 | Updated: 9 March 2011, 15:51

Dunstable Police are urging motorists to be on their guard following an upturn in thefts from motor vehicles this weekend.

Police say between Friday (4 March) and Sunday (6 March) there were several cases where property was taken from vehicles, some of which had been left insecure.

Thieves struck in residential streets and local car parks and stole items including a mobile telephone, tools, stereo equipment, two satellite navigation systems, an iPODs and a wallet. In one case a kayak and paddles were stolen from a vehicle roof and in another a front bumper and number plate went missing.

Crime Reduction Officer, Lesley Johnson, appealed to motorists to double check doors, windows and the sun roof are locked and that all valuables are removed from vehicles.

Any sucker marks left by satellite navigation systems should be polished off glass, since thieves may assume the owner has simply hidden the device in the glove compartment.

Always try to park in well-lit locations, use your garage if you have one and ensure alarms and immobilisers are in good working order. Never leave keys hanging on a hook by the front door, or on a kitchen unit, where they may be found by burglars.

CRO Johnson said: “Police are doing all they can to apprehend those responsible, but the public can help by double checking that vehicle doors and windows are locked and valuables are removed.

“As the better weather approaches we would remind drivers to take similar precautions when visiting local beauty spots, since these too can become targets for thieves looking for easy pickings.”

Anyone with information about theft can contact police, in confidence, on 01234 841212, Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or text to 07786 200011. For crime reduction advice email Saferhomes@bedfordshire.pnn.police.uk.