Officers are asking residents to be extra vigilant and are issuing crime prevention advice following a series of thefts from vehicles in Hatfield overnight (4-5 October).

 

There were eight incidents in the Birchwood area, where windows were smashed and items taken from five vehicles, including satellite navigation systems, a stereo and a wheel.

 

A 25 year old man from Welwyn Garden City is currently being questioned in connection with these incidents.

 

Detective Sergeant Mark Wallis from the Local Crime Unit said: “Whilst we have made arrests and our investigations are on-going, I’d like to ask people to be vigilant to this type of crime. If you believe someone or a vehicle is out of place or acting suspiciously, you should contact police immediately via 999 so we can take action.

 

“In a number of these cases, items of value, such as sat navs, were left in the cars overnight. I’d remind people to remove these from your vehicle overnight.

 

“I would also ask people to contact me if they believed they saw or heard anything which could assist the investigation. Please call me via the non-emergency number 101.”

 

Residents are urged to follow these simple tips to help prevent becoming a victim of car crime:


• It might sound obvious, but make sure you lock the doors and shut the windows and sunroof whenever you leave your vehicle unattended.
• Remove your Sat Nav and its holder, and wipe away any suction marks as these could suggest to a potential thief that a Sat Nav is stored in your vehicle.
• Never leave any valuables in your vehicle – not even in the glove-box or boot - and keep ALL other possessions out of sight.
• Use an approved steering lock or gear clamp, and remember to set your immobiliser and alarm if you have them.
• Register your stereo, laptop, Sat Nav and any other property on the free online property database www.immobilise.com. It only takes a few minutes and could help police trace your property if it’s lost or stolen.
• Look out for car parks with a Park Mark Safer Parking sign which have recognised levels of security. If you have a garage at home, make sure you use it and lock it properly.

For more detailed security advice, please visit www.herts.police.uk or contact us on 101.

Source: Hertfordshire Constabulary