Urgent warning to drivers as vehicle crime spree hits Portsmouth

Portsmouth Neighbourhood Watch is urging people to be careful following a spree across Drayton and Farlington.

Yobs have raided at least seven cars across the area in the past week, the neighbourhood watch has said, with other attempted break-ins being reported in nearby Hilsea and Copnor.

The main area being targeted has been Woodfield Avenue, Farlington, with three vehicles being hit by louts.

At least two vehicles were reported to have been broken into in Portsdown Avenue, Drayton, with a further two in Drayton Lane.

Police are now urging drivers to take precautions to prevent their vehicles being targeted.

A spokesman said: ‘There are measures you can take to reduce the likelihood of becoming a victim yourself, such as: when you leave your vehicle make sure the doors of your vehicle are locked and the windows and sunroof are shut, no matter how hot the weather is. If possible, park your vehicle in a busy area. If you have a garage, use it.

‘Do not leave anything in your vehicle, including the boot. A jacket or coat left behind may be of very little value to you, but a thief may think it has been used to hide a laptop or handbag and will break into your vehicle to find out.

‘If you have a removable music system, take it with you. Make sure you do not leave documents which have your name on in your vehicle. Do not leave your sat-nav in your vehicle and don’t forget to remove the cradle and wipe the suction marks from your windscreen.’

Van owners with expensive tools are also being urged to take action to ensure their vehicles are secured.

Anyone with any information about any of the crimes being reported is urged to call police on 101 or independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555111,