News
Warning to van drivers after thefts
Dated: 11 May 2012
Police are advising workers in Newcastle's east end to make sure they lock their vans and remove valuable property from their vehicles when they park up.
This follows recent thefts of tools, mobile phones and sat navs from vans in the area, most recently from an unlocked van parked in Forsyth Road, Jesmond.
Acting Neighbourhood Inspector Louise Galliott, of Newcastle East Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "It's important van owners ensure they lock their vehicles, even if only leaving it for a few seconds and especially overnight.
"Thieves have stolen from vans where expensive items have been left inside while the owner has been nearby working on a job.
"In the main these are opportunist thieves who are taking advantage and I'd urge people to take simple steps to reduce the risk of falling victim to such criminals.
"It's also important to remove any tools from the van overnight. We're carrying out enquiries to trace those responsible and I'd urge anyone who sees suspicious activity in their neighbourhood to report it to us as soon as possible so we can take action."
Other advice includes not leaving anything on display, fitting a good alarm and warning stickers and parking vehicles in busy, well lit areas whenever possible.
Anyone with information about the thefts can contact police on 101 ext 69191 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.