Community Safety Message: Vehicle Crime Prevention

Protect Your Van – Protect Your Livelihood

Thames Valley Police is reminding residents, tradespeople, and business owners across Newport Pagnell and the surrounding rural areas to remain vigilant following reports of vehicle crime, including van break-ins, thefts from vehicles, and vehicle thefts.

Criminals often target vans and work vehicles for the valuable tools, equipment, and machinery stored inside. In many cases, offences occur overnight when vehicles are parked on driveways, residential streets, industrial estates, or in poorly lit locations.

How Criminals Are Operating

Offenders may:

For many victims, the loss extends beyond the value of stolen property, often affecting their ability to work and support their families.

Crime Prevention Advice

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim:

✅ Remove all tools and valuables from vehicles whenever possible.

✅ Park in a secure, well-lit location. If available, use garages, lockable compounds, or areas covered by CCTV.

✅ Fit additional security such as:

✅ Ensure vehicles are locked and double-check that keyless entry systems have secured correctly.

✅ Store keys away from doors and windows and consider using a signal-blocking pouch for keyless vehicle fobs.

✅ Mark and register your tools and equipment using a recognised property marking scheme, and keep an up-to-date record of serial numbers, photographs, and purchase details. This can significantly improve the chances of stolen property being identified and returned to its rightful owner. To find your nearest bike and tool marking event, visit the Police.uk website: https://www.police.uk/

✅ Avoid leaving paperwork, sat navs, wallets, or other valuables visible inside vehicles.

Report Suspicious Activity

Residents are asked to remain alert and report any suspicious vehicles or individuals seen:

If a crime is in progress, call 999 immediately.

For non-emergencies, report information to Thames Valley Police via:

Working Together

Vehicle crime can have a significant impact on victims and our community. By taking simple preventative measures and reporting suspicious behaviour promptly, we can help reduce opportunities for offenders and keep Newport Pagnell and surrounding areas safe.

Stay vigilant, secure your vehicle, and help protect your neighbourhood.