Van owners and drivers are being asked to be extra vigilant after a number of thefts from workers' vans which were parked overnight in hotel car parks.
Tools have been taken from vehicles parked outside hotels across Swindon. There have also been some day-time break-ins in to vans while parked outside DIY stores.
Police have been distributing leaflets (see attached copy) to local hotels, DIY stores and builders' merchants to warn drivers of the break-ins and to offer advice.
Sgt Mike Armishaw said: "This appears to be an on-going issue and I don't want drivers to feel we are doing nothing but giving out advice - we are investigating these break-ins but need help from van owners too. Please record serial numbers of tools and keep the list away from the van - this will help reduce your risk of falling victim to this type of crime and the tools will be easier to trace back to you if they are stolen.
"Also, I am appealing for the general public to report anything suspicious or anyone acting suspiciously around a van.
“Incidents of this nature can be really upsetting for the victims and also very inconvenient – the victims could be prevented from working due to the loss of their tools.
“As difficult as this may be at times, I’d like to encourage all van owners to ensure all expensive tools are removed from vehicles overnight where possible. Park in well-lit areas and close to CCTV cameras if possible, fit van alarms and additional locks and mark tools with your postcode using distinctive paint."
Anyone with information in relation to these types of incidents should call police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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