Van owners urged to secure vehicles

Van owners in Burton are being urged to be vigilant against vehicle theft and damage after a van was targeted in Yoxall this morning (Tuesday 10 May).

Officers were called to an address off Main Street, Yoxall, at around 1.35am this morning (Tuesday 10 May) following reports of vehicle crime.

On arrival, officers found a red Vauxhall Vivaro had been damaged.

It is reported two men attempted to access the van by cutting into the panels of the van doors. Both men were then disturbed which led to them fleeing the scene on foot in the direction of Ferrers Fields, Yoxall.

Thankfully, nothing was reported as stolen.

One of the men was seen wearing a black baseball cap, a head torch and a jacket. The other man was seen wearing a cap and a dark jacket with a hood.

Inquiries are ongoing.

Inspector Tim Norbury, of the East Staffordshire 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 offences.

“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.

“You should attempt to remove tools from vans overnight. An alternative can be to mark 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.”

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