Police in Bradford are warning drivers in the city centre not to leave their valuables on view in parked cars. Recently, there have been a number of thefts from motor vehicles in the city centre.
DCI Mark McManus of Bradford South Division, said: “Expensive items such as sat navs and mobile phones that people tend to leave in their vehicles are often a particular target for thieves. Even if you’re only leaving your car parked for a couple of minutes, take your valuables with you. If you’re using a portable sat nav system then remove the holder and wipe the sucker mark off the windscreen. It only takes a minute but it will make a difference if thieves are looking to target cars in the area.
Officers are carrying out visits to known criminals with links to thefts from vehicles and those who are suspected of being involved. Uniformed and undercover Officers are also mounting extra patrols in areas where there is a problem.”
DCI McManus added: “Anyone with any information as to whom maybe responsible for this sort of crime are urged to contact Bradford South Police on 0845 60 60 606 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111. Likewise, if they have knowledge or suspect people who are purchasing stolen goods such as sat navs, laptops or mobile phones.”
There are also simple measures people can take to help prevent themselves from becoming victims of car crime:
Ensure your vehicle is locked when unattended.
Don’t leave any of your property out on show.
If your car is fitted with an alarm ensure that it is set when leaving your vehicle.
Officers plan to carry out extra patrols in the areas affected and offer advice to anyone leaving valuables in their vehicle. Police are also continuing to use capture cars in Bradford – with the latest person caught by one of these specially designed vehicles just a week ago.
