Spike in thefts hits insecure vehicles

Rise in stealing of mobile phones from motors

GET THE BREAKING NEWS FIRST VIA TWITTER Police have vowed to take action to combat thieves who have been targeting cars in Peterborough. Officers say they have had to deal with a surge in car crime over the last fortnight.

Now they are urging motorists to also be on their guard and ensure vehicles are secure and that all valuables have been removed.

A police spokesman said: “Quite simply thieves have been targeting those cars that have not been locked up properly and where valuables, particularly mobile phones have been left on view.”

Ten offences were reported in the Ortons over the last twoweek period, with most occurring in the late evening.

Thieves are targeting insecure vehicles where doors and boots are unlocked or items are left on display.

In comparison to the re-

“This is uncharacteristic of the area which has enjoyed a massive reduction in crime. Police are using both overt and covert techniques

to catch offenders.”

time period.

The vehicles being targeted are both cars and vans.

The areas which haveseen recorded thefts so far are: Wingfield, Marsham, Bardney, Paynels, Orton Malborne and Leighton.

The thefts were recorded between August 5 and August 19 and so far no arrests have been made.

T h e HALO ( Hel p i n g Achieve Local Objectives) teams which the constabulary use are micro teams made up of PCs and PCSOs (police community support officers.)

Working in tandem with the Safer Peterborough Partnership, they identify specific issues in an area and look to tackle those needs.

They will identify areas which require more intense policing and tailor their approach accordingly.

Councillor Graham Casey for Orton Longueville, said: “It’s disappointing to see this sort of crime increasing. I’m hoping it is just a blip and it will be monitored.”

Cllr Graham Casey.