Wakefield police urge residents not to give thieves an easy ride

Wednesday, 12 September 2018 07:00

Home owners are being urged to keep their car keys away following high value vehicle thefts in Wakefield District.

West Yorkshire Police are advising drivers not to leave keys on show near doors or windows after a recent increase in burglaries in which cars have been taken.

Around eight incidents have been recorded in and around the Crofton, Sandal and Walton areas of Wakefield in the last four weeks.

Thieves have largely targeted high value German cars in the offences.

Wakefield District CID’s vehicle crime team is investigating the incidents and possible connections between the thefts which have taken place in the early hours.

Detective Inspector Andy Kelly of Wakefield District CID, said: “We are investigating a recent increase in thefts of higher value cars in parts of the Wakefield District, and do believe a number of these offences are linked with offenders deliberately targeting specific brands.

“What we have noticed in several of these cases is that cars have been stolen after thieves have been easily able to spot keys near windows or doors, making it much easier for them to steal vehicles.

“We would always urge drivers to keep their keys out of sight and to make sure doors and downstairs windows are secure and locked at night to avoid giving a thief an easy ride.

“There are also other measures we can all consider to protect our cars such as using a garage if possible, or installing some exterior lighting to deter an offender.”

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