Thieves put lives at risk

Life-saving equipment has been stolen from ambulance stations in crimes which could have cost lives.

The callous criminals even left emergency vehicles out of action in a spate of break-ins.

Ambulance service bosses are now appealing for information after the equipment was stolen from stations across the county.

The Ashford Make Ready Centre was hit at around 11pm on Sunday, June 11 when a hole was cut through a metal fence to gain entry to the car park.

Equipment was taken from an ambulance but was left behind when the thieves were chased off the Orbital Park premises.

Sheppey and Herne Bay ambulance stations have also been targeted and two ambulances were vandalised in March at the Thanet Make Ready Centre, leaving them inoperable while they were repaired.

Chris Stamp, regional operations manager for the South East Coast Ambulance Service, said: “Those responsible need to know the seriousness of their actions which, undoubtedly, have put lives at risk.

“They have targeted vital pieces of life-saving equipment which have no sell-on value.”

Anyone with information should call police on 01843 222289, quoting crime reference ZY/24921/17, or call Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.