Drivers warned of rise in theft from cars

A recent survey suggests that while theft of cars is decreasing, stealing from vehicles is creeping up, as drivers are not taking enough precautions to protect their property inside their cars.

Andy Mills, director of Auto Theft Merchandise, said that theft of vehicles had primarily gone down due to manufacturers' policies of fitting immobilisers on new cars as standard.

"Theft of cars is becoming more complicated and is a specialist market," he explained. "They are stolen to order. People are breaking into houses now and nicking the keys to steal the car that has been ordered."

However, he added that while new technology has prevented thieves from driving off in their victims' cars, "theft from vehicles is on the up".

Mr Mills put this trend down to one simple factor: "People leave stuff on display in the cars and it's easy to nick."

Last week, John Moore, crime reduction officer for Bradford North Division, affirmed the same point.

"We are asking people to take a few simple steps, such as removing all valuables, including car stereos and satellite navigation systems, when leaving their vehicles parked up," he said.

"Even a coat or bag left on show can tempt a thief who may believe it may contain valuables."