Melton Police have issued an appeal for information after a number of vehicles have been targeted by criminals in recent weeks.
In an email to the Neighbourhood Link scheme, Inspector Darren Richardson, Commander at Melton Police Station, has asked people to submit dash cam footage, CCTV images and information to help secure convictions.
He said: "As you may be aware we have a recent spree of theft from motor vehicles in Melton and I wanted to give you all an update on what action we are taking. We know that we have localised criminality who are targeting motor vehicles, these offences are usually targeting unlocked vehicles by walking down the street trying car doors until they find one unlocked.
Whilst we are out patrolling these areas we are also working tirelessly to complete outstanding enquiries so we can look at enforcement opportunities."
It's not only local criminals who are operating however with Melton & Rutland being targetted by out of town criminal gangs.
Mr Richardson added: "In addition to the above we have also been targeted by organised criminals working regionally and nationally, these criminals are targeting work vans by means of using power tools to drill vehicle locking systems to gain access, the impact this type of crime on the victim’s is huge, tools which have taken years to build up stolen, this affecting the victim’s ability to work but also costing in insurance premiums. I have secured support from our force Intelligence bureau and specialist departments to develop the investigations, support local patrols and to assist with any enforcement.
I know how much these crimes are impacting our communities, as such I will provide regular updates."
Officers are appealing for anyone with information to come forward and are also urging communities in Melton and Rutland following several incidents where tools were taken from vans.
Five incidents, which occurred between Wednesday evening (15th January) and yesterday morning (Thursday 16th January) are believed to be linked.
Between 4.15pm on Wednesday and 8.15am yesterday power tools were stolen from a van in Barker Crescent, Melton Mowbray. Some tools were left on the road outside.
Between 6pm on Wednesday and 7.30am yesterday tools were stolen from a van in Althorpe Road, Oakham.
Between 7pm on Wednesday and 6am yesterday power tools were stolen from a van in Blyth Avenue, Melton.
Between 9.30pm on Wednesday and 7.20am yesterday tools were stolen from a van in Lowther Close, Langham.
At around 10pm on Wednesday toold were stolen from a van in Nene Close, Melton.
Inspector Richardson added: "The impact that this sort of crime can have on our local tradespeople and communities is huge as it directly affects their livelihood.
“Officers from the NPA are carrying out increased patrols in the area and we’d urge our communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to us. If you notice anyone acting in a manner that seems unusual, then please do let us know.
“Likewise, I’d ask anyone who has doorbell, CCTV or dashcam footage that they think could help to get in touch.
You can pass on information by visiting https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/ or by calling 101.
In an emergency when a crime is being committed please call 999.
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