People are urged to be vigilant after a surge in thefts from vehicles in Carlisle.
Incidents have been reported across the city in the areas of Belle Vue, Linstock, Morton and Upperby.
Inspector Andy Leather, of Carlisle Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “Overnight we have had a series of thefts from vehicles across Carlisle.
“We are asking residents to take steps that could prevent them falling victim to this crime.”
The following advice is provided to assist in reducing the opportunity for items of value from being stolen from vehicles:
- Do not leave your vehicles unlocked
- Never leave any items of value in your vehicle on leaving it unoccupied
- Do not leave items of value in the boot – some parcel shelves may not fit flush or may have dropped off centre after use, the smallest of gaps may provide an opportunity for an offender to see through
- Wherever feasible do not leave any work or business-related equipment in your vehicle, especially when your vehicle is left unoccupied overnight – having such items stolen can have a serious impact on your livelihood
- Remove items of value from the glove box – this includes vehicle registration documentation
- You may know that a bag or a box in your vehicle is empty or contains nothing of value, but an offender won’t do and it may catch their attention
Inspector Leather added: “We are actively looking to identify and arrest individuals targeting vehicles and have officers out conducting enquiries.
“If you have doorbell footage in the areas of The Nurseries, Avon Close, Whiteclose Gate and St John’s Close please check them for suspicious activity.
“If your vehicle has also been targeted, please report this to us so we can investigate.”
Anyone with information on suspicious activity is asked to report this online at www.cumbria.police.uk/reportit or call 101.
