Crime prevention following theft from vans

Crime prevention following theft from vans

Hello Resident,

Thames Valley Police have received recent reports where vans are being targeted in hotel car parks, with offenders forcing entry and stealing high value tools. These incidents have typically been occurring in the late evening, or during periods where vehicles are being left unattended for extended durations.

The police would like to offer crime prevention advice such as the following:

Vehicle Security

Remove tools from vehicles overnight wherever possible.

Use aftermarket deadlocks, armour locks, or internal lock protection plates.

Mark tools with forensic property marking systems and record serial numbers.

Install alarms and tracked tool boxes where feasible.

Parking

Park in well‑lit areas close to building entrances and CCTV coverage.

Reverse vans against walls or railings to restrict access to rear doors.

When staying at hotels, request parking near the reception entrance or under surveillance.

Documentation

Keep an up‑to‑date inventory of tools, including photos and serial numbers, to speed up reporting and insurance claims.

If you become a victim of a crime such as this, please report the incident to the police via 999 if offenders are on scene or nearby, or 101/online if the crime has already occurred. Preserve any CCTV or dash-cam footage, and avoid handling or cleaning the vehicle before officers attend to preserve forensic opportunities.

For further crime prevention advice, please contact your local Neighbourhood Policing Team or visit the official police crime prevention guidance at www.police.uk.

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Message Sent By
Samantha Le Jeune
(Police, DC, PCT, Milton Keynes)