(Yate) - Don’t Fall Prey To The Car Arsonists Say Police
Article Date: 6th September 2005
We folks at CSCC like to do our bit for our members so please have a read of this.
Arsonists attack car
Owners of older model cars are being reminded to properly secure their vehicles following a spate of theft and arson attacks in South Gloucestershire.
Within the last month 17 cars, seven of which had been reported stolen, have been deliberately set on fire in the Yate area.
Officers are urging motorists not to park their vehicles in isolated areas and follow simple crime prevention advice.
Most of the cars that have been targeted are older models which either haven’t been secured properly or do not make use of security devices that are on the market.
Chipping Sodbury sector sergeant Andy McIlrath said: “I would advise all motorists to lock the doors, windows, boot and sunroof every time you leave your car - however briefly.
“We have found that most of the vehicles have been targeted late at night or during the early hours of the morning. Some of the cars have been parked in areas where there is little or no street lighting which can play into the hands of the opportunist thief.
“It is worth investigating in a steering lock or an insurance approved alarm or immobiliser.”
Police are urging anyone who notices anybody acting suspiciously around a vehicle to contact them immediately on 999.
Sgt McIlrath added: “We are taking all of these incidents very seriously and are determined to catch the person or persons responsible who have caused distress and misery to the victims.
“Most of the arson attacks have occurred between 1am and 3am and we would therefore appeal to anyone who is aware of a neighbour leaving or returning to their home during these times who they suspect may be connected to these incidents to contact us.”
Anyone with any information should contact Chipping Sodbury Police Station on 0845 4567000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
