Police issue car crime warning

Date published: 03/02/2010

Police in Bury are urging motorists to remove valuables from their vehicles following a spate of thefts from across the borough over the past month.

In the first three weeks of January, there were 117 reports of vehicle crime in Bury with almost half of these occurring in Prestwich – predominantly in the Holyrood area.

The vast majority of offences are thefts from vehicles whereby offenders smash windows or bend the doors of cars back so they can steal the contents from within.

The most common items stolen are sat nav systems, mobile phones and accessories, CDs and items of personal property left in the vehicle such as sports sunglasses.

Officers from Prestwich Neighbourhood Policing Team have been carrying out high-profile foot patrols in the area to deter thieves and have been providing crime prevention advice to local residents to make them more aware of the importance of vehicle security.

Chief Inspector Sean Hogan said: “Thieves are always on the lookout for an easy target and by leaving valuables and personal possessions on show, we are making their jobs much simpler. It can be very stressful to find that your vehicle has been broken into and repairing smashed windows or bent doors can prove costly so it is important we take steps to prevent offenders stealing our property.

“I would urge motorists to take steps to avoid becoming a target for criminals such as never leaving items on show in cars as even inexpensive items such as CDs can prove an open invitation to thieves. I would also advise against leaving cars in unlit, secluded streets and recommend the use of garages and secure car parks wherever possible.”

Motorists are also being urged to take extra care while defrosting their vehicles during the current spell of cold weather.

Chief Inspector Hogan added: “People can be tempted to leave their car engine running on a frosty morning while they keep nice and warm inside their house. However, it only takes a few seconds for a thief to steal a car when the keys have been left in the ignition.”

To contact Prestwich NPT call 0161 856 4538 or email prestwich.npt@gmp.police.uk