POLICE CUT VEHICLE CRIME IN SALFORD
Vehicle crime has been cut in Irlam and Cadishead thanks to a police operation run throughout August.
During the operation there were 21 vehicle crime offences compared to 26 in July, a reduction of nearly 20 per cent.
Eighteen people were also arrested during the operation, codenamed Pipe, for offences including burglary, possession of Class A drugs, public order offences, assault, breach of bail and possession of cannabis.
In addition, officers carried out 82 stop checks during the operation. Inspector Jill Gorse (pictured) of the Salford South Neighbourhood Policing Team said: “In the run up to this initiative we were seeing an increase in overnight incidents of vehicle crime.
“By maintaining a high visibility presence in hotspot areas throughout August, our officers were successful in reducing vehicle crime, and we will continue to employ these tactics wherever similar problems occur.
“I would also urge motorists to help us by remembering not to leave any valuables in their cars overnight, and to ensure vehicles are securely locked and any alarms activated.”
Police are also issuing the following tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of vehicle crime:
· Take extra care when parking - stick to well-lit areas wherever possible.
· Keep car keys hidden at home and away from doors and windows.
· If you have a garage, put your car in it and keep both locked.
· When you leave your car, close all windows, lock all doors and activate the immobiliser if you have one.
· Always remove the ignition key when you leave your car, even if it is only for a few seconds, e.g. when filling up with petrol.
· Fit an alarm or tracker system.
· Use a steering lock.
· Don’t leave driving documents in a car.
· Don’t leave valuables on view to tempt a thief, always take them with you. If it is absolutely necessary to leave something in the car, lock it in the boot.
· Remove car stereos, satellite navigation systems (sat navs) and their mounting cradles and wipe away ny ‘sucker marks’ on the windscreen. Do not put expensive items in the glove compartment as thieves may break in just to check.
· Mark accessories (radios, sat navs) in the vehicle with your postcode and house number or your vehicle registration number. Owners should also note the make, model and serial number.