Vehicle owners must be vigilant

Detectives in Renfrewshire have urged people to take steps to protect their vehicles after it was revealed organised crime gangs are using sophisticated techniques to steal motors.

Officers launched a series of dawn raids targeting suspected car thieves across the west coast of Scotland last week after a three-month long investigation.

Seven properties in Glasgow, Renfrew, Ayrshire, Johnstone and Paisley were searched as part of the operation, which lead to three men being arrested.

Cops leading the probe said slick crooks will use any means necessary to steal vehicles in the region.

Detective Chief Inspector Douglas Falconer, from Paisley CID, said the force is determined to smash the crime gangs making car owners lives a misery.

He said: “We have being working extremely hard for a number of months to disrupt organised crime groups who have been targeting specific types of motor vehicles using very sophisticated techniques.

“I’m pleased that we are making progress in this area we are committed to bringing those responsible for these crimes to justice.

“Over the last week we have carried out a number of searches and gathered further evidence. This is part of wider investigation to tackle serious and organised crime across Renfrewshire and beyond.”

DCI Falconer called on members of the public to take action to prevent them potentially falling victim.

He added: “I would like to remind members of the public that whilst you might believe your car key is safe within your property, it is possible that the key is still transmitting a signal which can then be used by a criminal to gain access to your vehicle.

“Where possible keep your car key well away from where your car is parked inside your house or consider keeping your car key in a faraday bag, which blocks the signal from the key.

“I’d also urge you to report any suspicious activity around or near to motor vehicles, day or night.

“If you a hve any information in relation to these types of crimes, please come forward to police.”

Three men aged 34, 37, and 38, were due to appear at Paisley Sheriff Court in connection with car theft and organised crime offences.

Anyone with information should call police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.