Police are urging motorists to be vigilant following a spate of thefts from vehicles across rural West Sussex.
Since the beginning of the year, around 60 incidents have been reported relating to cars parked in car parks and lay-bys in areas such as Lavant, Funtington, Goodwood, Midhurst, Pulborough and Amberley.
Items including Sat Navs, headphones, handbags, clothes and even bed linen have been reported stolen in recent weeks, as well as number plates.
Police say they believe that some people are not reporting these incidents and they ask victims to get in touch 'as soon as possible in order to prevent and detect further offending'.
PC Steve Bucksey, of the Roads Policing Unit, said:
“This appears to be a linked series of crimes whereby rear and side windows are smashed in order to steal items from vehicles parked in rural locations.
“We are fortunate enough to have access to a wide variety of beautiful countryside via car parks and laybys in Sussex, and while we would not discourage people from using these parking facilities, it is important to know the risks.
“Never leave valuables in your car, and especially not on display. Remove any signs of valuables, such as marks left by Sat Navs. But most importantly, be vigilant and contact us if you have been a victim of crime or witnessed any suspicious activity such as vehicles missing number plates.
“The most concerning thing about these incidents is that they appear to be under-reported. On occasions we have heard from victims saying multiple vehicles have been targeted and damaged, but they were the only ones to report it.
“We rely on information being passed to us efficiently, ideally immediately whilst still at scene, in order to build up our intelligence rapidly. That way, we can alert our colleagues across the force and increase our chances of catching those responsible and bringing them to justice.”
Teenager In Custody On Crawley Attempted Murder Charge
Appeal Following Assault In Hastings
Road Closed As Armed Police Attend Incident In Worthing
Lewes District Council Placed In Planning Special Measures
‘Life-Changing’ Medication For Asthma Patients Now Available In Sussex
Arms Factory Demonstrator Disrupts Brighton & Hove Council Meeting
Patients Forced Into 'Pharmacy Bingo' - As Survey Says Medicine Shortages 'Beyond Critical'
Appeal for information After Man Dies In Hastings Collision
Wealden To Hold National Dementia Action Week This Month
Brighton Food Festival To Be Charged For Mud Bath