Warning following van break-ins around East Staffs and Lichfield

People in Staffordshire are being urged to make sure their vehicles are left safe and secure following a number of van break-ins in the area recently.

Incidents in Lichfield, Burton, Uttoxeter, Lightwood and Burntwood have been reported, with thefts occurring at various times of the day.

On Monday 8 November at approximately 3am, a white Peugeot Partner was targeted on Brackenhill Road, Burntwood.

It is believed that offenders have broken a window on the vehicle and pressed a button to unlock the rear doors, where they have taken items from inside.

The offenders may have been travelling in a silver Audi Q2.

Between 4:30pm on Tuesday (9 November) and 7:00am on Wednesday (10 November), a Ford Transit was targeted on the A50 Bypass Road, Uttoxeter.

Similarly, work tools have been taken from inside the vehicle.

Between 9:30pm and 11pm on On Tuesday (9 November), a van was targeted whilst in a car-park on Derby Road, Uttoxeter, with more work tools taken from inside.

DC Daniel Trupp, part of the Priorities Team within CID at Staffordshire Police, said: “When these offences take place it is not only an inconvenience to the owners of these vehicles but it can have a real impact on their livelihoods.

“We are asking van owners to be vigilant and also consider their vehicle’s security to mitigate the chances of them falling victim to crime.

“Steps they can take include removing tools from their vans but where this is not possible marking them clearly with their name using paint pens and sealing that with a clear lacquer spray. I would also suggest using a lockable cabinet and small cameras can also be installed inside vans.

“I would also suggest taking photographs of items of value and noting down their serial numbers. They can also be registered online at a property register site.”

Further information on how to keep vehicle’s safe can be found on the force website.