Knowle Weekly Update - 13.04.26

Hello, 

This week we held our monthly beat surgery at the Knowle Masonic Centre where we had a good discussion on a lot of topics that are of concern to the community. We touched on speeding in Knowle and the different areas that we might next target with some speed enforcement. We also discussed Neighbourhood Watch and what the current crime trends are in Knowle.

If you would like to join us on our next beat surgery, please see our meetings/events tab on our website: Solihull Rural | Your area | West Midlands Police | West Midlands Police

We have also gone out with our Streetwatch volunteers for a joint patrol around Knowle.

What crime has happened in the last 9 Days?

Crime prevention advice:

Crime prevention is all about trying to make your belongings less desirable to anyone else. 

Vehicle crime: We are seeing an increase in vehicle crime this week with specifically BMWs being targeted. 

Most vehicle thefts are through keyless entry. Offenders can use what is a called a “relay device” to scan for your key’s signal. They can copy that signal onto a blank key and use that to enter your vehicle. This is how easy it is for offenders to drive away in your vehicle. To prevent this, you can use a Faraday bag which has a specific lining that blocks the signal from the relay device. Make sure to keep your key in the faraday bag – even when going to the shops!

To give your vehicle that added layer of protection, a steering wheel lock acts as both a visible deterrent as well as an extra obstacle offenders must get through. Most offenders would be put off attempting to steal your vehicle when they see a steering wheel lock as it adds that extra time and effort they would need to try and get it off. There have been many cases where offenders have been able to enter a vehicle but then struggled to get through the steering lock.

Rogue Traders: We have had reports of Rogue Traders knocking doors looking for work.

Don’t let anyone you don’t know into your house. If people knock on your door regarding building work or services, check for any formal identification and company names. We have “No Cold Caller” signs available for anyone who wishes to put them up in their window to dissuade people knocking. (Get in touch with us if you would like some and we can drop them off!)

CCTV is a really useful tool for us to use in investigations as it allows us to see the offence happening, any offenders and what they are wearing or a direction of travel in their escape. If you haven’t already, sign up to our CCTV registry to receive alerts when your footage may help us with incidents in your area - CCTV Registry | West Midlands Police

What are we up to next week?

Follow us on X - @ruralswmp to see what we are getting up to day to day.

Email the team at rural@westmidlands.police.uk for any questions, concerns, advice or engagements.

Thank you for your continued support,

PCSO Kiah Acton 31911