Appeal for information following thefts of tools in Rock Ferry

We are appealing for information following thefts of tools from vans in the Rock Ferry area of Wirral.

On Wednesday 10 June, a report was received a theft of tools from a van on Bedford Road. A similar offence occurred in the early hours on Monday 8 June in Albany Road.

Other information received indicates that further offences have taken place in the area in recent weeks and enquiries are ongoing to establish the details.

Local Policing Inspector Nicola Hughes said: “Such theft will never be tolerated and we will assess all information that comes in. If anyone has had a similar experience and not reported it to police, please do so and we can continue to gather information.

“Any CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage or images could be vital. Such thefts cause distress, inconvenience and financial strain to local businesses, and we will respond to all information provided through our official channels, as opposed to third hand on social media.

“In the meantime, I want to take this opportunity to remind people not to leave valuable in their vehicles overnight. If you must, it is good idea to mark them clearly with your name/company name and address using paint pens and seal with a clear lacquer spray.

"Alternatively, you can use a variety of other property marking systems. Items that are clearly marked are less desirable and more difficult to sell on.

“Consider using a lockable cabinet within your van to store tools – a number of security rated products are available. Small cameras are also designed to record inside vehicles. Visit Secured by Design for more details.

“You can also take photographs of items of value, make a note of the serial numbers and consider registering them online at a property register site.”

More information can be found below and on our website: Prevent theft from a vehicle | Crime Prevention | Merseyside Police

Lock it or lose it – lock your vehicle and check you haven’t left any windows or the sunroof open.

Lock it. Pouch. It Keep it. Use a Faraday Pouch to help prevent keyless entry car theft – it blocks the electronic signal criminals can use to remotely access your vehicle.

Take it. Hide it. Keep it.  It is always best to take your valuables with you, but if you can’t, put them out of sight.

Do not leave your engine running unattended.  If someone takes it while left like this, your insurer may not pay out.

Park in a well-lit area. If possible, park in illuminated and staffed car parks.

Fit good in-car security locks, such as steering wheel locks, pedal boxes and gear stick locks.

Keep your keys safe and out of view at home and away from your front door.

Double check electronic locking as devices can be used to jam the electronic signal from your key fob to lock your vehicle. Always manually check your vehicle has locked before walking away.

Always call 999 if a crime is in progress. You can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. You can also call 101 or DM us @MerPolCC or Facebook ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’. Always call 999 if a crime is in progress.