
Several thefts from motor vehicles have been reported in the Longhedge and Old Sarum areas, with Wiltshire Police currently carrying out enquiries.
The incidents happened in the early hours of Tuesday, September 23rd.
In some cases, nothing valuable was left inside the vehicles, and nothing was stolen, but glove compartments had been searched. In other cases, items, including perfume, were stolen, or minor damage was caused.
The offender is believed to have been of a slim build, wearing dark trainers, a light-coloured tracksuit, a light jacket with dark trim around the bottom and sleeves, a black face covering, and carrying a Nike rucksack.
PC Rachel Wood said: “I’d really like to urge residents to report any incidents, even if nothing has been taken or if there appears to be no evidence, as it helps us build a picture of where these issues are happening and allows us to identify patterns of offences.
“Please, if you live in Longhedge or Old Sarum area, please check any home CCTV, doorbell footage or dash cams and get in touch if you have any footage of anybody acting suspiciously in the area around these times. If you see anybody late at night that appears to be trying car door handles, call 999.”
You can reduce the chances of your vehicle being targeted by following the below self-help advice tips:
- Always lock your vehicle, leaving nothing on show. Ensure you remove valuable items – such as bags, money, mobile phones, laptops, tools, and other portable items that are quick and easy to steal.
- Check the door handles before you walk away and activate alarm systems.
- Park in busy, well-lit areas and wherever possible, park in areas covered by CCTV.
- Use a motion-activated dash cam which alerts when someone is nearby.
- Consider installing motion-activated CCTV overlooking your vehicle.
- Mark your property, including work tools, with a UV pen or forensic fluid such as Smartwater.