Theft of Motor Vehicle - Bristol Avenue -

Good afternoon Resident,
This morning, an Attempted Theft of Motor Vehicle and a subsequent Theft of Motor Vehicle occurred on Bristol Avenue at approximately 08:00hrs.

Incident Summary

Offenders approached a vehicle parked on a driveway and held a bag up towards the window of the victim’s address for several minutes. They then gained access to the victim’s vehicle but were unable to start it. The offenders subsequently targeted a second vehicle on the same driveway, gained entry, and successfully stole it.

The stolen vehicle is a white Kia Ceed 3. Due to the layout of Bristol Avenue, the vehicle would have been driven off in the direction of St Albans Avenue.

CCTV Appeal

Residents with CCTV covering Bristol Avenue are requested to review their footage from around or shortly before 08:00hrs for any suspicious activity. There is currently no description of the offenders; however, they may be carrying a bag or rucksack.

If you identify any relevant footage, please reply directly to this message or email 69467@gmp.police.uk. A secure link will then be provided for uploading the footage.

Keyless Entry Vehicle Theft (‘Relay Theft’)

It is believed the offenders may have used equipment capable of amplifying the signal emitted by a keyless entry fob.

Keyless entry systems unlock a vehicle automatically when the key is within close proximity. Offenders can use relay devices to imitate this signal, allowing them to unlock, start and steal a vehicle even when the key is inside the victim’s home.

Crime Prevention Advice

To reduce the risk of keyless theft:

Immobilisers: You may also wish to speak with your vehicle dealership about installing a manufacturer‑approved aftermarket immobiliser. These devices prevent the vehicle from starting unless the correct fob, key or personalised disarm sequence is used.