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Residents,
In recent weeks, we have seen a significant rise in vehicle thefts, with particularly late‑model Land Rover Defenders being particularly targeted across the borough and into the Lancashire Constabulary area.
Offenders are using sophisticated methods to access vehicles and then to start and drive them away within seconds.
Officers from the Neighbourhood Priority Crime Team, the Bolton North Neighbourhood Policing Team, GMP’s Tactical Vehicle Intercept Team & Roads Policing Unit, and Forensic Crime Scene Investigators (CSI) are working hard to identify those responsible. You may have already noticed increased activity in the area and this will continue for as long as necessary.
Please remain alert and report any suspicious activity to GMP immediately by calling 999.
To help protect your vehicle, we strongly encourage the following preventative measures:
• Check with the vehicle manufacturer or dealer to ensure your vehicle has the latest version of security software – If you are a Land Rover owner you may be able to check and book updates here - https://www.landrover.co.uk/ownership/security-update.html
• Install an aftermarket or third party immobiliser - Consider fitting an approved immobiliser that prevents the vehicle being started. This can prevent offenders from driving the vehicle away even if they manage to unlock it and access the onboard computer or manufactures immobiliser.
• Use a physical security device such as a steering lock or pedal lock box even when leaving the vehicle for just a few moments such as at a shop, car parks and even petrol stations.
• Block your vehicle in or use a barrier on driveways etc – Consider using rising bollards, locking gates or barriers or using other vehicles to make it more difficult to drive away.
• Store keys securely – Don’t make it easy for thieves. Keep fobs away from doors and windows, ideally in a signal blocking pouch to reduce the risk of relay attacks.
• If you have a garage – Use it to store your vehicle keeping it out of sight and far more secure than in the open.
Taking these steps can significantly reduce the risk of theft and make your vehicle a far less attractive target to potential thieves.
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