POLICE investigating a series of reported vehicle thefts in Dorset have arrested two men.

An investigation was launched into a suspected series of more than 50 thefts and related offences since June 2022, with reported offences occurring across the county including in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole areas.

Now, two men, aged 22 and 29 and from the Southampton area, have been arrested on suspicion of theft of motor vehicles and criminal damage.

They have been released on police bail as detectives carry out further enquiries.

Detective Inspector Dave Horn, of Dorset County CID, said: “This series of reported thefts is believed to involve the targeting of high-value sports utility vehicles or four-wheel drive vehicles.

“We are continuing to investigate these matters and I would appeal to anyone with information to come forward.

“I would also like to repeat our plea to vehicle owners to consider the security in place for your vehicle and report any suspicious activity to us.”

Anyone with information should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk/contact or on 101, quoting incident number 55220134740.

People can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.