Police warning following thefts of car keys and vehicles in Gloucestershire

Police are warning car owners to be vigilant following a number of high-value vehicle thefts across the county.

At around 4.15am on Monday morning (8 January), a Porsche Macan was stolen from a property in Nympsfield, Stonehouse.

It is believed the unknown offenders forced a window to enter the property and took two sets of car keys before making off in the Porsche.

The vehicle was tracked and recovered in Cirencester where officers believe they disturbed the same offenders attempting to steal a Volvo before they fled the scene.

In another incident which took place between 4-5am on Monday morning in Naunton near Cheltenham, offenders gained entry to a property and stole the keys to an Audi A7 before driving off in the vehicle.

The owner of the vehicle reported it as found later that day.

High value cars such as BMWs, Audis and Range Rovers are common targets as they will sell for higher prices.

You can help protect your vehicle from theft by following these measures:

• Storing your key fob, and any spares, inside a car key signal blocker pouch such as a faraday pouch or box.
• Storing your car keys away from the front door and away from the house.
• Considering using more traditional crime prevention methods such as a steering wheel lock or clamp, use of CCTV and security lighting.
• Some keys can have the wireless signal turned off - look inside your owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer.
• Parking defensively by going near to a wall or by using another car to block it in, or park in the garage if you have one.
• You can have your car fitted with a tracker or if you're buying a new car ask the showroom about the cost of activating the inbuilt manufacturer's system.

Residents are encouraged to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to police by calling 101 or completing the following online form: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/soh/seen-or-heard/

You can find more ways to protect your vehicle on the Constabulary's website here: https://www.gloucestershire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/preventing-car-vehicle-theft/