Appeal after tools worth £8,000 stolen from vans

Officers are appealing for information after tools, worth £8,000, were stolen from a number of vans in Burton and Tamworth recently.

Police were first called to a car park on Centurion Way, Tamworth, this morning (Thursday 28 April), following reports of vehicle crime.

The theft took place between 6pm on Wednesday (27 April and 5.10am this morning (Thursday 28 April).

Offenders managed to cut a hole in the back sliding door of a red Ford Transit in order to gain entry.

Tools worth £2,000 including: a drill, breaker, an upright rammer and a petrol disc cutter, were reported stolen.

It comes as officers were called to a car park on Mercia Park, Burton, at 9.45pm on Tuesday (26 April).

Witnesses reported spotting two men wearing balaclavas breaking into a white Ford Transit.

Tools worth £6,000 including: Dewalt tools, saws, a drill and two Impact guns were stolen and the offenders were then seen getting into a grey car.

Officers are currently reviewing CCTV footage of both theft areas and urge anyone who may have seen anything suspicious to get in touch.

Chief Inspector Rob Neeson, of the Tamworth Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “These type of offences can have a profound impact on the livelihoods of the victims.

“Van owners should remain vigilant and consider their vehicle’s security to mitigate the chances of them falling victim to such thefts.

“Where possible, lock your van in a secure garage or use a steering lock to deter any opportunists from targeting your vehicle. If possible, make sure your van is parked in direct view of CCTV cameras.

“I would also suggest using a lockable cabinet and small cameras can also be installed inside vans.”

For more crime prevention advice, visit: Preventing car and vehicle theft | Crime Prevention | Staffordshire Police

If you were in the area at the time of any of the thefts and have any relevant information, contact Staffordshire Police, on Facebook, Twitter, or call 101, quoting incident number 087 of 28 April.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.