Malicious thieves continue to steal cars and items from vans in north Portsmouth as more streets hit

Police have had to step up patrols in the area over the past few weeks amid a surge of reports. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary confirmed that more incidents occurred in recent days. They said: "Unfortunately we have been made aware further attempts of Theft from vehicles and thefts of motor vehicles.

"These incidents have occurred throughout the day at the Mountbatten Centre, Northern Road, Wymering Lane, Colesbourne Road and Limberline Spur." Thefts from cars and vans have been taking place in Farlington, Hilsea, Cosham, Copnor and Drayton - with 42 reports being made to the force since the investigation was opened.

A police spokeswoman previously told The News: "The general nature of these reports seems to be thefts of items from inside cars and vans. No arrests have been made at this time. Patrols are being increased and we are following active lines of enquiry." Some vehicles have been damaged during attempts by thieves to steal what is inside. The majority of these incident have been taking place during the late evening.

Anyone with information regarding these incidents is advised to call 101, quoting the crime reference number 44240052995. Reports can also be submitted online via the police website. Advice on how people can protect themselves can be found online here.