REVEALED: Map shows recent increase in vehicle crime near Havant town centre

The map issued by Hampshire Constabulary of the vehicle crimes reported in Havant. Credit: Hampshire Constabulary

New figures show 35 reports of tampering with, or theft from a vehicle, were made in a radius of just two kilometres between December 1 and January 27.

The reports have come from the Bedhampton, Barncroft, Battins and West Leigh areas.

As a warning residents police have published a map showing where the crimes have committed, and have made a clear warning - lock your vehicles or risk losing them.

Many of the reports have been focused on the area around Stockheath Road. Credit: Google Street Maps

Items have been taken from vehicles in locations including Stockheath Road, Basing Road and Wedover Road.

The majority of crimes were committed during the night, with loose change, tools and number plates among the items stolen.

Police said there has not been a clear pattern to the types of vehicles targeted, but multiple models of Hyundais, Nissans and Land Rovers have been broken into.

Inspector Andy Clinton said: ‘We’re releasing this map and these figures, not because they are especially high, but because they seem to be concentrating on a particular area of the borough.

Police have urged people to keep their vehicles safe and locked at night

‘I’d urge residents in the Bedhampton and West Leigh to consider how they can make their vehicles as secure as possible to stop the problem from getting worse.

‘In many cases these thefts will be carried out by opportunistic thieves who see valuables on display or vehicles that are unlocked.

‘We do not believe that all of these reports are linked, but it sends a clear reminder to “Lock It or Lose It”.’

He revealed last week officers stop-checked three men after a report of people looking into vehicles with torches in Tarrant Gardens, although no stolen items were found and no action was taken.

Insp. Clinton added: ‘The vast majority of these reports relate to vehicles that were locked, however items were left on display.

‘A thief will not risk being heard or seen by smashing a window, unless they can clearly see there is a benefit to doing so, because something they want can be seen from outside the vehicle.

‘The theft of items like tools from a vehicle can have a dramatic impact on the victim’s livelihood. Where possible don’t leave expensive equipment in vans overnight.’

If you have any information on vehicle crime call police on 101.