Drivers urged to be vigilant following keyless car and tool thefts

Officers are urging car owners to be vigilant after a number of keyless car thefts took place in Cannock and South Staffordshire recently.

Two vehicles were stolen on Thursday (13 January).

The first vehicle, a white Ford Fiesta, was stolen from a property near Norton Hall Lane, Norton Canes at around 12.10am.

The offenders stole the vehicle after activating the car doors without keys.

Then, at around 11.45pm, a white Land Rover Defender was reported stolen from an address near Pendeford Mill Lane, Bilbrook.

It is believed the Defender was stolen between 10.45pm and 11.45pm that night.

Officers believe offenders may be using keyless relay devices or so-called skeleton keys to access vehicles.

Police are also reminding vehicle owners on how best to protect themselves from keyless car thefts.

If you have a keyless car/vehicle:
• Consider purchasing a key security pouch (also known as a Faraday pouch) to keep your car entry devices in while inside the house. These block the ability of thieves to access the key signal
• Always check your car doors have locked after pressing your key fob
• Park in a garage if possible, or another secure area, where it is difficult to get the car out if accessed
• Consider using a steering wheel lock.

Van owners are also being urged to make sure their vehicles are left safe and secure following a van break-in on Thursday (13 January)

At approximately 1.35pm, a white Vauxhall Vivaro was targeted Himley Road, Himley.

Offenders accessed the van via the side door and a number of tools, including drills, batteries and a chop saw, were stolen.

Further information on how to keep vehicles safe can be found on the force website.

Anyone who may have CCTV or dashcam footage at the time of the offences should message Staffordshire Police on Facebook, Twitter or call 101, quoting incident number 309 of 13 January.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.