Crime Dorset Motoring News Somerset Wiltshire

Police warning after 30 van thefts in Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire

Paul JonesOctober 9, 20240 Comment0

POLICE are warning van owners to be on their guard after a spate of break-ins across Somerset, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Dorset.

Officers have received reports of more than 30 reported van break-ins in Wiltshire alone in recent weeks – and believe vehicles in Hampshire, Dorset and Somerset have also been targeted by the same group.

PC Rachel Gunn, part of Salisbury’s Neighbourhood Policing Team in Wiltshire, said: “We are doing all we can to identify the individuals who are part of the group committing these offences.

“Also, we’re working closely with our neighbouring forces to share intelligence and ultimately bring these criminals to justice.”

The warning from Wiltshire comes after police in Wincanton and Somerton said they were increasing patrols in response to a spate of van break-ins.

Police advice to van owners to prevent thefts:

Ensure you close all the windows and lock all the doors, even if you are working close by.
Make sure any alarm system is working and consider using additional security such as steering wheel locks.
Don’t leave tools on show if you’re leaving your van unattended and consider using ‘there are no tools left in this vehicle’ signs.
Park your van in a secure location where it can be seen so that anyone approaching it will also be seen.
Consider marking your tools so if they are stolen, they can be identified. Company-branded tools are also less appealing to thieves.
Remember to take a note of all the serial numbers on your items and photograph them and use signage to warn that your tools have been marked.
CCTV, lighting and alarms help to act as a deterrent to those committing the crime. Small CCTV cameras can be purchased and put in the rear of your van.
If you see anyone acting suspiciously around vehicles, inform the police.
If you have been a victim of a break-in, report the theft as soon as possible and preserve as much evidence as you can so officers can consider forensic examination.

Wiltshire Police said incidents of van break-ins have been recorded in Amesbury, Devizes, Salisbury, Swindon and Warminster.

Anyone with information that could help with the investigation should contact their neighbourhood policing teams via: