Loading...
Officers warn Walsall residents about vehicle crime
16 August 2012
WALSALL police are reminding people to keep their vehicle secure when it is left unattended and to remove valuables out of sight.
Officers are urging vehicle owners not to leave personal belongings on display in particular, sat-nav's, handbags and mobile phones which could attract opportunist thieves.
In addition to high visibility patrols, officers are giving out crime prevention advice to encourage people to protect their vehicles.
Detective Constable Debbie Webster from Walsall Police said; "We have seen a slight increase in vehicle crime across the borough where unsecure vehicles have been targeted and personal belonging that have been left on display have been stolen by opportunist thieves.
"We are also investigating where the stolen property such as mobile phones and sat-navs are being sold, and I would ask the public to call us if they have been offered any goods which they might suspect to be stolen.
"If you have been offered any deals which you think are too good to be true, or you know who might be involved in these crimes, please get in touch with us.
"I'd like to remind all motorists to ensure they lock their vehicle and take out any valuable items to reduce the risk of theft. Even though vehicle crime has continued to stay low since last year's decrease, we cannot become complacent and must continue to remain vigilant."
The top five advice tips for protecting your vehicle are:
• Fit an alarm or immobiliser
• Your garage is for your car – use it!
• Get all glass surfaces security etched
• Remove valuables - don't leave them on display
• Keep windows shut and park in a secure well lit area.
People can find advice at the Safer Motors website - www.west-midlands.police.uk/safermotors/
Please report vehicle crime to Walsall police by calling 101. Always call 999 in an emergency. If you would prefer to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
