|
I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Vehicle crime (theft from or theft of), which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey. I would like to make you aware of a few incidences of note so that the community can remain vigilant.
Firstly, there have been 2 reported vehicle thefts in the area over the past few days and secondly, there was a suspicious event on the 10th July 2026 regarding a motorbike stopping outside of a few homes and seemingly taking images or recording the addresses. Similar safeguarding advice applies.
I would like to remind you to:
🔐 Secure Your Vehicle
Always lock your vehicle, even when parked at home or for short periods.
Check doors and windows are fully closed, including boot and sunroof.
Remove keys from the vehicle and never leave it running unattended.
Consider steering wheel locks, pedal locks, or immobilisers, which can deter thieves.
🔑 Protect Your Vehicle Keys
Keep keys away from front doors, windows, or letterboxes.
Store vehicle keys in a signal‑blocking (Faraday) pouch to prevent relay theft.
Keep spare keys hidden securely, not visible or easily accessible.
🚗 Parking Safely
Park in a well‑lit area, ideally within view of your home or CCTV.
If you have a driveway, consider:
Parking another vehicle behind the main car (where safe and practical)
Installing gates or a driveway post
Turn wheels towards the kerb when parked on the road.
🎥 Use Technology Where Possible
Make use of CCTV, doorbell cameras, or motion lighting.
If your vehicle has a tracking system, ensure it is active and up to date.
Activate vehicle security features such as alarms and auto‑locking.
👀 Be Alert to Suspicious Behaviour
Please report:
People trying car door handles
Vehicles driving slowly with occupants looking into parked cars
Unfamiliar persons loitering near vehicles, especially late at night
Anyone attempting to block driveway exits or tamper with vehicles
📞 Report Concerns Promptly
Emergencies or crimes in progress: Call 999
Suspicious activity or non‑urgent concerns: Call 101 or report online
If you have CCTV or dashcam footage, retain it and mention this when reporting
🤝 Look Out for Each Other
Speak with neighbours and consider setting up or joining a Neighbourhood Watch
Alert vulnerable neighbours, including older residents, to current risks
Share information responsibly through trusted community channels
🔑Home Security Measures
Residents should consider:
Ensuring all doors and windows are locked, even when at home.
Using double-locking mechanisms where fitted.
Installing or maintaining security lighting.
Using alarm systems and ensuring they are activated when leaving the property.
Keeping valuable items out of sight from windows.
Marking property with forensic marking products or recording serial numbers.
Trimming hedges and fences to improve visibility around entry points.
Using timer switches on lights when away from home.
Social Media and Personal Information
Avoid advertising holidays or prolonged absences online.
Be cautious about sharing information regarding expensive purchases.
Check privacy settings on social media accounts.
👀What to Look Out For
Residents should report:
Unknown individuals peering into windows or gardens.
People trying door handles or accessing rear gardens without permission.
Vehicles repeatedly driving slowly around residential streets.
Individuals taking photographs of properties without an obvious reason.
Unexpected callers claiming to be tradespeople or utility workers who cannot provide identification.
Suspicious sales approaches or attempts to gain entry to a property.
What Information Helps Police?
🎥 Encourage residents to note:
Descriptions of individuals (clothing, height, build, distinguishing features).
Vehicle registrations, make, model and colour.
Exact location.
Time and date of the incident.
Direction of travel.
Photographs or video footage can be useful if obtained safely.
📞 Reporting Suspicious Activity
999 if a crime is in progress or there is an immediate risk to life or property.
101 for non-emergency reports.
Crimestoppers (0800 555 111) if they wish to remain anonymous.
Thank you,
PC Marshall
 If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.kent.police.uk, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100 per cent anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. Get Involved Please consider getting involved by registering for these messages, this will enable you to contribute to the local priority survey. We may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on. Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 
Please click here to complete the survey
| 
