Saxmundham - Appeal following series of interference with motor vehicles
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Police in the east of Suffolk are urging vehicle owners to ensure they keep their vehicles secure after a recent spate of interference with a motor vehicle in the area. Police received three reports of three unknown individuals attempting to gain access to motor vehicles in Saxmundham all at around 5am on Sunday 16 February.
In one of the incidents, the unknown persons gained entry to a Volkswagen Polo on Fairfield Road and reportedly stole a tool bag and spare change from the vehicle. In another, the unknown persons have gained access to a Ford Focus on Fairfield Road and released the handbrake, leading to the vehicle rolling down the hill before hitting a wall causing minor damage to the vehicle. In the third incident, a Royal Mail van was accessed on St John’s Road, though nothing has been reported as stolen.
Following CCTV enquiries, police can confirm that the three individuals were seen on Albion Street near to the Railway Tavern at around 4.55am before walking away from the train station. They are then seen again at around 5am at the top of Albion Street before walking onto Fairfield Road from Rendham Road. They are then last seen on camera at around 5.10am on St Johns Road, not far from the junction with Fairfield Road.
The three individuals were all seen wearing full tracksuits with their hoods up.
Subsequently, police would like to issue the following advice:
- Always lock your vehicle, even if you are away from it for only a short time, and keep your windows fully closed
- Secure anything that is on the outside of your car or van
- Do not leave valuables in your vehicle. Take mobile phones, wallets, purses or cash with you
- Ensure that any electronic items, and their mountings, are hidden from view
- Vans are often targeted for any tools left inside. If you have to leave them overnight, do ensure they are clearly marked or, better still, kept in a lockable box or cabinet
- Try to avoid dimly lit areas. Park in busier and brighter areas if possible
Officers are appealing for any witnesses to these incidents and asking any motorists driving in the area at the time of the incident with a dashcam fitted in their vehicle, or anyone with CCTV in the area to review the footage for any material that may be of assistance.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Suffolk Police, quoting references 37/8871/25, 37/8870/25 or 37/8858/25.
Website – https://www.suffolk.police.uk/tell-us
Phone – Call 101
Crimestoppers – Contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their online form: www.crimestoppers-uk.org
Please note in the event of an emergency you should always call 999