Police in the New Forest are appealing for information and issuing a warning for motorists to remain vigilant after a rise in the number of thefts from vehicles parked in the area.
During the warmer months an increase in this type of crime is often seen in ‘Forest car parks and beauty spots, and in recent weeks there has also been a rise in offences in Ringwood and Lymington.
On Thursday, August 6, an offender used a tool to attempt to gain access to a Citroen Saxo parked in the Lower Woodside area.
The offender was not successful on this occasion, but in the last month a number of similar incidents have taken place.
Between 8pm on August 8 and 9.40am on August 9, a Citroen C3 parked on Willow Drive, Ringwood, was broken into and a suitcase was stolen.
Between the same times and dates the rear window of a Vauxhall Astra parked in Coxstone Lane, Ringwood, was smashed and a laptop was taken.
Between 2.30pm and 3pm on Sunday, July 26, a Nissan Micra was parked in Rookes Lane, Lymington while the owner took her dog for a walk.
The car was broken into and a bag of food shopping was stolen from inside.
Between 2.15pm and 3.10pm on Saturday, July 25, a woman’s handbag was stolen from a Ford Mondeo parked in Pennington Marshes.
The bag was black leather and contained a set of keys, a pair of glasses, and a black leather purse with £20 cash and cards inside.
Inspector John McGonigle said, “We are very concerned about these incidents and we are increasing patrols and targeting known hot spots to combat the problem, but we need the public to play their part too.
“These types of offences are often committed by opportunist thieves, and people can protect themselves by not giving them any chances – if you are walking the dog and don’t need your handbag, don’t take it. If you do need a bag or are stopping after purchasing goods elsewhere, take the bag with you.
“This may feel like a hassle, but isn’t it worse to return to your car and find it has been broken into? Offenders will search the vehicle, so don’t hide anything, take it with you, and be aware that if you place a bag or other items in the boot, you may be being watched. “By taking simple steps such as these, motorists and passengers can protect themselves and their vehicles, helping increase safety for everyone in the New Forest area.”
Can you help?
Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 0845 045 45 45 or call the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111. Mini-Com users can call 01962 875000.
