Theft from motor vehicle

Good morning residents, 

We have unfortunately recently had a van ‘drilled’ and items taken. This type of crime involves criminals drilling into the van’s door lock to bypass the mechanism, then open the van to steal items from within, such as tools and equipment but not limited to just these items – personal items from the rear of vans can also be taken such as wallets, keys, documentation. Vans are a prime target for theft by this means. 

Vans are often targeted by thieves for the tools stored inside. If you must leave tools in a van overnight, it's a good idea to mark them clearly with your name / company name and address using paint pens and seal with a clear lacquer spray. Alternatively, you can use a variety of other property marking systems. Items that are clearly marked are less desirable and more difficult to sell on.

Consider using a lockable cabinet within your van to store tools and other items – there are several security rated products are available. Small cameras are also designed to record inside vehicles. Visit Secured by Design for more details.

You can also take photographs of items of value, make a note of the serial numbers, and consider registering them online at a property register site.

It can take less than 30 seconds to break into a vehicle. Parking in well-lit areas and busy streets can decrease the chances of a theft occurring but even so please remember to always keep your vehicle locked when you are not in it and keep belongings out of sight.

Kind regards

Wimbledon Park SNT