MOTORISTS are being reminded not to leave valuables in their vehicles following a spate of thefts across the borough in the last few weeks.
Thames Valley Police are urging motorists and residents to remain vigilant after 17 separate incidents were reported in less than a week.
In Finchampstead a solar panel was stolen from the roof of a camper van parked in McCarthy Way on Wednesday, July 13.
The following week, a car was stolen from a driveway in Maryland, and a car was damaged in Waverley Way. Both of these incidents took place on Wednesday, July 19.
In Spencers Wood, three vehicles were broken into in Basingstoke Road on Friday, July 14. One of these vehicles included a works van and tools were stolen from inside.
On the same day, items were stolen from a car parked in Basingstoke Road, Riseley.
The following week, on Wednesday, July 19 items including a toolbox were stolen from a Landrover Defender parked in Grazeley Green Road in Grazeley.
Tools were stolen from a transit van parked in Ashtrees Road, in Woodley, on Friday, July 14, while number plates were stolen from a car in Maiden Place, Earley, the following day.
A car in Elm Road had been targeted on July 13: the car had been searched but nothing was stolen.
Two cars parked in The Square were then targeted by thieves on Sunday, July 16, who smashed windows and stole mobile phones.
On Wednesday, July 19, a front numberplate was stolen from a car in Culford Close.
Speakers left in the backseat of a car parked in Oxford Road, Wokingham were stolen on Friday, July 14, while the front and rear numberplates of a car in Crescent Road were taken on July 16.
Thames Valley Police officers are reminding motorists never to leave any items inside their car – including small change, sunglasses, satnavs or mobile phone – whether on show or inside the glove box.
Vehicles should always be locked, regardless of the length of time they are left, and any security devices activated.
Anyone who has any information relating to any of these incidents is encouraged to call the Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101. If you ever suspect a crime is taking place, always call 999.
