Cracking car crime at Christmas

Christmas vehicle crime

Greater Manchester Police is warning motorists to lock up and remove all valuables from cars to stop thieves helping themselves to early Christmas presents.

Cars left unattended with valuables on view can provide easy pickings for thieves targeting town centre parking areas especially during busy Christmas shopping periods.

Officers say that though thefts from motor vehicles have gone down by 23 per cent in the 12 months to the end of October this year when compared to the same period in the previous year, meaning 5,953 fewer victims, people still need to remain vigilant.

Officers across the county will be stepping up patrols in these areas and targeting known offenders but want motorists to help by removing all temptations from view, parking in well-lit and frequented locations and remembering to check that their car is locked before they leave it.

Using a staffed or CCTV protected car park that has Park Mark status will greatly decrease the chances of falling foul of car crime. Removing Sat Navs, cradles and wiping away their tell-tale sucker marks will also help criminals to pass over your car as will leaving your glove compartment open to show that it is empty.

Detective Superintendent Mark Bell who leads on Operation Storm, Greater Manchester Police’s fight against burglars, robbers and thieves said: “Thieves get busy in the run up to Christmas to target cars they think may contain valuables bought for friends and family at Christmas.

“Shoppers can ensure that the presents they have bought go to those they were intended for and not to callous criminals by following the simple advice here.

“They can also help us by reporting suspicious behaviour to us either directly on 0161 872 5050 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."