Cut car crime in Leighton

The warning comes after reports of car keys being targeted and the vehicles they belong to taken in Leighton Buzzard, Luton and Dunstable areas.

Due to the onset of winter weather conditions and the festive shopping spree soon to begin drivers are also warned not to leave car engines running while they pop in to a shop, or have switched their engines and heaters on and returned to their homes during cold snaps.

Instances like those make it easy for opportunist thieves to steal vehicles and other property left in the vehicle, say Beds Police.

Detective Inspector Sean Quinn, who leads South Bedfordshire priority crime team, said: “We should all get in to the habit of keeping our keys, handbags and wallets out of sight when we return home and motorists are advised never to leave their vehicle unattended with the key in the ignition and the engine running.

“We would also urge them to leave extra time to go out and thoroughly clear front, side and back windows. These steps may seem like an inconvenience, but it is a lot less trouble than having a car stolen and suddenly being without transport.

“On the run up to Christmas it is also very tempting to leave shopping and other personal items such as handbags, wallets and mobile telephones in our cars for convenience, however, thieves are opportunists and they will break in to your vehicle to steal almost anything, so please make sure you do not keep any valuables in your vehicle especially when you are out Christmas shopping.”

Anyone with information about those committing crime or those selling stolen goods can telephone Bedfordshire Police, in complete confidence, on 101, or text 07786 200011. Alternatively you can contact the charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.