News Release
Keep thieves locked out
Dated: 11 Apr 2012
Police in Gateshead are giving advice to local motorists to ensure they keep their vehicles locked and secured.
It comes following a number of incidents where opportunist thieves have stolen items from unlocked cars in the Whickham area.
Neighbourhood Inspector Colin Lowther is urging drivers to take the extra few seconds to ensure vehicles are locked and items aren't on show.
Inspector Lowther of the Inner West Neighbourhood Policing Team said: "Leaving your car unlocked is a simple mistake and easily done. However, I do want to stress to any vehicle owner to make it matter of routine to double check you car is secure and there is nothing on show to attract opportunist thieves.
"It is awful when people are victims of such crimes but it is even more of an inconvenience to them if they can not claim through their insurance, which is often the case when the vehicle has not been secured.
"While we will do everything to find the people responsible for such incidents, please remember to lock up and help keep thieves out."
Anyone who may have any suspicious about incidents in the Gateshead area or would like to seek more advice can contact police on 101 ext 69191 or follow @NPGateshead #crimeprevention. Facebook/NPGateshead.