POLICE in Bromsgrove are warning drivers to be vigilant after an increase in car-key burglaries.
Officers say they are investigating several incidents and want to reassure residents we are doing everything we can to trace those responsible.
Anyone who has witnessed a car-key burglary should call 101 or click here to report it online.
How the public can help
Police say the information it receives from the public is essential in bringing criminals to justice.
Car key burglary is when a home is broken into with the specific aim of stealing car keys and the vehicle from the property.
Perpetrators often target specific vehicles, based on demand and value. If a criminal is targeting a certain vehicle, they will also be targeting the owner, looking for easy ways to exploit their security and get to their keys.
Anyone who sees suspicious vehicles in their area should report it to officers, using the contact details above, giving the make, model, colour and registration numbers.
Car-key burglary prevention
Police advise people keep their car keys somewhere safe in their home and out of sight.
People should also lock their cars in their garages if they can, fit a high quality alarm to their vehicle and consider additional security measures, such as immobilisers and visible security locks.
Car keys should always be taken when leaving vehicles unattended and keys should be concealed when in public places.
Residents should lock doors and windows of their homes and their vehicles should be secured when left unattended.
If households own more than one vehicle, park the lesser valued vehicle behind the more expensive one on the driveway.
Other security measures suggested include installing a high quality burglar alarm and outside security lights.
West Mercia Police said: “Thank you for your help.
“It is only by the police and the public working together that we can prevent and detect crime.”
