Wiltshire police have seen a recent increase in reports of thefts of Land Rovers and similar 4×4 vehicles, from across Wiltshire but predominantly from rural locations.
It is also believed that the thefts are connected to a number of burglaries that have occurred in South Wiltshire.
It is often the case that these vehicles are being parked up and left unlocked, or the keys are being left with them, making the vehicles even more vulnerable.
Crime Reduction Officer, Amanda Baldwin said, ‘We believe these vehicles are being stolen and used by thieves as transport when committing burglaries in the same area. The size of the vehicles allows larger items to be carried and they can negotiate different terrains more easily than other vehicles.’
The Wiltshire Police Community Affairs dep-artment have issued the following general advice:
Secure your vehicle at all times, even when parked outside your home
If you don’t have any security features built into your vehicle, invest in some additional ones. Make sure the products conform to British standards, a good start would be to have a look at the Sold Secure website
If you cannot park your vehicle in a garage or behind closed gates, park your vehicle in a well lit area in the curtilage of your property, preferably in an area where it is overlooked
Having a full tank of fuel provides thieves with more opportunities
Make sure your number plates are clean and easily visible, this makes it easier for police to spot it if stolen, and for witnesses to clearly see it if it is seen in suspicious circumstances Always report anything suspicious as soon as possible
For further site specific advice please contact Amanda Baldwin, Community Affairs, Salisbury on 0845 408 7000.
