Police in the north west have reported a noticeable uptick in vehicle-related offences, prompting them to issue a public advisory. Specifically, there have been three incidents in the towns of Nelson, Newchurch, and Helmshore, all occurring overnight. The locations of these incidents were Hibson Road in Nelson, Naze Road in Newchurch, and Cherry Tree Way in Helmshore. As of now, no arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing.
In response to the increase in offences, the police have shared several recommended precautions for vehicle owners, particularly those with Nissan Navara vehicles, which seem to be targeted. Among the advised measures are the use of steering and wheel locks, and the storing of keys in Faraday bags. Faraday bags are designed to block the signals needed to replicate keyless entry systems, offering an additional layer of security in a simple and effective manner.
The police have also advised vehicle owners to double-check that their cars are locked and to avoid leaving valuable items inside their vehicles overnight. These straightforward actions can significantly reduce the risk of theft and break-ins.
A police spokesperson elaborated on the situation, saying, “We are urging Nissan Navara owners to take extra precautions around the security of their vehicles after an increase of offences throughout the north west. There were three incidents in East Lancashire overnight. They were in Hibson Road, Nelson, Naze Road, Newchurch, and Cherry Tree Way, Helmshore. Nobody has been arrested at this time. Enquiries are very much ongoing.”
The spokesperson reiterated the recommended precautions: “Recommended precautions are the use of steering, wheel locks and the use of Faraday bags for storing keys. Faraday bags can block the signals needed for copying keyless entry systems and can provide that extra level of security in a simple way. Please double-check when locking your vehicles and do not leave valuable items in your vehicles overnight.”
Additionally, the police urged residents with CCTV systems to ensure their cameras are properly maintained. This includes keeping the lens free of obstructions such as cobwebs or dirt, ensuring the date and time settings are accurate, and that any associated software is up to date. Being familiar with the system and knowing how to retrieve footage can be crucial in the event of a crime.
The police spokesperson concluded, “As a constabulary, we will continue to do all we can to prevent and stop any emerging crime trends. However, we also rely on the vigilance and cooperation of the public. Together, we can create a more secure environment and deter criminal activity.”
The increase in vehicle offences in the north west highlights a concerning trend that the police are actively working to address. Vehicle owners, especially those with Nissan Navaras, are encouraged to take the recommended precautions seriously to protect their property. The use of steering and wheel locks can serve as a physical deterrent, making it more difficult for thieves to steal the vehicle. Meanwhile, Faraday bags can prevent thieves from using electronic devices to replicate keyless entry systems, adding an extra layer of protection.
Moreover, double-checking that vehicles are locked and ensuring no valuable items are left inside overnight are basic yet effective steps that can significantly reduce the risk of theft. By taking these precautions, vehicle owners can help safeguard their property and assist the police in their efforts to curb the recent surge in vehicle-related crimes.
Residents with CCTV systems also play a crucial role in crime prevention. Proper maintenance and familiarity with their systems can aid in capturing clear and usable footage that can be vital in investigations. The police’s emphasis on ensuring that CCTV cameras are free from obstructions and that settings are accurate underscores the importance of having reliable surveillance as a deterrent and investigative tool.
In conclusion, the recent increase in vehicle offences in the north west has prompted police to issue a set of practical and effective precautions for vehicle owners. By taking these steps, residents can help protect their vehicles and assist law enforcement in their efforts to address and prevent further crimes. The collaborative effort between the police and the community is essential in creating a safer environment and reducing the incidence of vehicle-related offences.