POLICE in Slough are urging motorists to be vigilant following a number of thefts of tools from vans.

Since Friday, November 6, more than half a dozen such offences have been reported in Langley, Colnbrook, Poyle and Cippenham.

The types of vans targeted have been Citroen Dispatchs and Ford Transits while all of the offences have taken place overnight and have occurred on residential roads or hotel car parks.

Detective sergeant Steve Madoc-Jones, from Local CID in Slough, said: “I would like to warn local residents and trades people about the current increase in offences toward unattended vans and to take additional care with their vehicles and property, as well as considering additional security measures for their vans.

“We are seeing a continuing trend in Slough, which is mirrored in neighbouring areas, of unattended vans being targeted by criminals for tools. I am very aware that tools are extremely valuable and can have a huge impact on small businesses when stolen. It is really important that tradesmen and tradeswomen take action now to secure their vehicles over and above the standard provided by vehicle manufacturers. Please consider installing lock boxes, additional interior alarms, and above all mark your tools and other property. Marking property using etching tools and selecta DNA is preferable. This is essential in helping us identify victim’s property when we recover suspected stolen property.

“I would also like to ask that the public be extra vigilant around unattended vans parked across Slough after dark. Please report any suspicious activity and anyone loitering around vans to the police.”

Anyone with any information about who may be committing this type of crime is encouraged to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.