White van burglary link

3:28pm Sunday 20th July 2008

FOLLOWING a spate of thefts from garages and gardens in Redditch people are being asked to look out for suspicious vehicles, in particular a white van.

The warning comes after several incidents where power tools, garden equipment and other items have been stolen.

In the latest incident, on Thursday, July 17 a £450 Stihl petrol strimmer was stolen from a shed in Dark Lane, Astwood Bank, and an attempt made at the same address to take a ride-on mower.

Two men fled the scene in a white van with ladders on the roof after a householder spotted one of them climbing over his fence at around 2pm.

Two men were also seen carrying power tools from a property in Foxlydiate Lane, Webheath on Monday afternoon before it was discovered that the garage had been burgled.

A white van and two men were again spotted in Winyates, when items were stolen from a skip in a garden on Sunday, July 6.

Similar incidents have also taken place in Throckmorton Road and at properties in Evesham and Harvington.

Dc Sgt Vikki Reay said that police were linking the cases and a white Transit-style van with two men visiting properties in broad daylight appeared to be the common denominator.

She said: "People should be on their guard and not just accept that a white van outside an address is simply making a delivery.

"Have a second look at what's going on and if you see anything suspicious report it to the police immediately. If possible also take a note of the vehicle's registration.

"We appreciate any help the public can give us to identify the offenders and if anyone has seen these people or has any information I would urge them to call us on 08457 444 888 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously and free on 0800 555 111." For details on keeping homes and gardens secure, visit www.westmercia.police.uk.

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