Read another sad tale about a much loved MH getting stolen, again its a late Transit base, just search stolen Transit Vans on google, Transits are the most stolen vehicle brand in the UK, Ford are aware and have done nothing, anyone with a trasit based vehicle should put additional security on it, the cost minimal compared to the human and monetary cost of having yours nicked.
Officers have launched an operation after a substantial increase in the theft of Transits that are of a 2010 model or onwards.
And it is thought that thieves are using a new way to steal the vehicles.
Detective Chief Inspector Steve Thomas in charge of Operation Hewton, said:
"There has been a recent spate of thefts of these vehicles so it is important that we get the warning out there about what is happening. We are doing all that we can to ensure that offenders are brought to justice and this includes working with manufacturers, partners and neighbouring forces to disrupt the market that supports this criminal activityBroken Link Removed
"I am coordinating a wide range of covert and overt operational policing activity across West Yorkshire and this includes specific operations where vehicles have been stopped by marked police vehicles or officers to ensure they have not been stolen.
"We have also carried out a number of warrants in the West Yorkshire area linked to this type of theft, made a number of arrests and recovered five stolen vans."
There has been a 91.2% increase in van theft across the force in the last six months. Of those thefts, over 60% are of Ford Transits of models from 2010 or more recent. Most of those Transit thefts (72.8% - or 268 thefts) are by 'unknown' means.
DCI Thomas added: "We believe offenders are taking the vehicles without the key - so using locksmith keys and jamming equipment and then selling them for parts.
"We are writing to all Ford Transit van owners in West Yorkshire that show up on our records to warn them about the recent increase and to tell them what they can do to reduce the threat.
"Advice includes leaving the vehicle at work whenever possible, or leaving it in a well lit area. Owners can also purchase additional security systems. If you buy anything make sure you try to buy something that are Sold Secure or Thatcham accredited / approved. A good old fashioned steering wheel lock will prevent many of these offences.
Officers have launched an operation after a substantial increase in the theft of Transits that are of a 2010 model or onwards.
And it is thought that thieves are using a new way to steal the vehicles.
Detective Chief Inspector Steve Thomas in charge of Operation Hewton, said:
"There has been a recent spate of thefts of these vehicles so it is important that we get the warning out there about what is happening. We are doing all that we can to ensure that offenders are brought to justice and this includes working with manufacturers, partners and neighbouring forces to disrupt the market that supports this criminal activityBroken Link Removed
"I am coordinating a wide range of covert and overt operational policing activity across West Yorkshire and this includes specific operations where vehicles have been stopped by marked police vehicles or officers to ensure they have not been stolen.
"We have also carried out a number of warrants in the West Yorkshire area linked to this type of theft, made a number of arrests and recovered five stolen vans."
There has been a 91.2% increase in van theft across the force in the last six months. Of those thefts, over 60% are of Ford Transits of models from 2010 or more recent. Most of those Transit thefts (72.8% - or 268 thefts) are by 'unknown' means.
DCI Thomas added: "We believe offenders are taking the vehicles without the key - so using locksmith keys and jamming equipment and then selling them for parts.
"We are writing to all Ford Transit van owners in West Yorkshire that show up on our records to warn them about the recent increase and to tell them what they can do to reduce the threat.
"Advice includes leaving the vehicle at work whenever possible, or leaving it in a well lit area. Owners can also purchase additional security systems. If you buy anything make sure you try to buy something that are Sold Secure or Thatcham accredited / approved. A good old fashioned steering wheel lock will prevent many of these offences.