Police warning after thefts from vehicles in Melton

Leicestershire Police is urging Melton drivers to protect their vehicles after a recent spate of thefts across the force area.
Leicestershire Police news EMN-160120-144535001Leicestershire Police news EMN-160120-144535001
Leicestershire Police news EMN-160120-144535001

The Melton Town South beat is among the areas which has seen a rise in theft from vehicles. Two thefts took place in Heather Crescent overnight between Thursday, September 1 and Friday, September 2. A catalytic converter was also stolen from a car on Wicklow Avenue overnight betweeen August 27 and 28.

Police are also is urging van drivers not to leave tools in their vehicles overnight after a recent spate of attempted or successful thefts from vans across the force area.

Chief Superintendent Andy Lee, commander of the Local Policing Directorate, said: “The majority of thefts have been taking place overnight on driveways of homes but we have also seen some occurrences in hotel car parks.

“I’d encourage van owners to take precautions, both at home and when staying overnight in hotels, to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of this type of crime.

“These tools are essential for people to carry out their jobs, and without them their livelihood can be affected.”

Drivers are advised to remove any valuable items from their vehicles and make sure doors are locked, windows are closed and keys are removed.

Motorists should park their vehicles in a garage if they have one, consider alarming the vehicle or fitting a metal cage to their catalytic convertor or having it etched.

Officers also advise if people park on a drive to install security lights and if possible to park vehicles close to a wall so the doors cannot be opened.

Van owners are advised to remove all tools from vehicles overnight and to visibly mark their machinery and tools.

Police are urging anyone with information about incidents and any suspicious activity to call them immediately on 101.