In the last few days there has been an extremely concerning increase in theft from motor vehicles overnight, specifically tools from work vans, around Oxfordshire. Reports thus far number 22 in the last 48 hours.

Please consider removing your tools and other valuables from your vans overnight – the offenders appear well practised and vehicle alarms are not being triggered. The offenders are also concealing their identity. If you cannot empty your vans, please consider parking defensively, eg up against a wall, garage, or other vehicles to prevent access to your van.

Now would be a good time to make sure any CCTV or video doorbells are charged and operating, but we would rather prevent the offences than be watching the footage of it with you. We know only too well, the impact that this is having on local residents.

Please be vigilant and report any suspicious vehicles on 101. Any offences in progress or having just occurred should be reported on 999.

A link to our crime prevention advice on our website is below:

Keeping vehicles safe | Crime prevention | Thames Valley Police