Motorists in Bebington urged to lock doors after thefts

We are giving motorists parking in Bebington crime prevention advice to help them avoid becoming victims of opportunist thieves.

In recent weeks a number of cars have been targeted by thieves trying doors to see if they are unlocked. 

In many cases they have been successful and officers are urging car owners to check they have locked their doors, and make sure no valuable items are on display in vehicles. 

Despite previous police warnings, in the past few weeks officers in Wirral have received reports of sat navs, mobile phones and laptops being stolen.

Community Sergeant Alan McKeon said: "We know that opportunist thieves have been operating in Bebington recently and we want car owners to make it as difficult as possible for them.

“The weather has been warmer and people may have felt more inclined to put their windows down and leave their cars insecure when they are out and about. Sadly, thieves are opportunists and are always ready to take advantage of this, especially when there are valuables or items on display.

"These crimes can have a huge impact on victims, particularly when expensive or cherished items are stolen.

"Car manufacturers have made vehicle security an increasing priority with the introduction of sophisticated alarm systems to prevent thieves from gaining access to them. But these systems are a waste of time if they are not used. It only takes a few seconds to remove items on display in your car then lock it. Those seconds can make a massive difference.”

“We encourage members of the public to register their valuables with www.immobilise.com and mark them with ultraviolet pens. Police officers and staff can search this database for property on a daily basis to more easily secure convictions for theft and return items to their owners swiftly.

Anyone with information on thefts from cars is asked to contact Merseyside Police social media desk via Twitter @MerPolCC or Facebook Merseyside Police CC. You can also call 101 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at: https://crimestoppers-uk.org/give-information/give-information.