Warning after car crimes in Bedlington

Police are appealing for information after a number of cars were broken into in Bedlington.

Between 9pm on Wednesday, March 11, and 8am on Thursday, March 12, five cars were targeted by thieves in the Hazelmere Estate area.

Enquiries are ongoing to establish what has been taken but police believe the offenders have chosen to steal from vehicles that were left unlocked and insecure.

Officers are in the area carrying out enquiries and are appealing for anyone with any information to contact them.

Neighbourhood Inspector Trevor Oakley said: "Twelve cars were broken into on Sunday night and today we have now had five more reports. There is obviously a thief or thieves operating in Bedlington looking for easy opportunities to get into people's cars.

"We are carrying out enquiries, checking CCTV footage and speaking to local residents and there will be extra officers patrolling the areas where the crimes have happened.

"We need residents to help us by removing all of their valuables from their cars overnight and making sure their car is locked when they park it up.

"If thieves are specifically targeting cars that are unlocked then make sure yours isn't an easy target by locking it when you leave it."

Anyone who saw anything suspicious around the times of the thefts, or anyone with any information is asked to contact police in Bedlington on 101 ext 69191 quoting reference number 175  030315.

The appeal comes as part of Operation Soundwave - a force wide initiative targeting opportunist thieves and burglars.

For crime prevention information and advice on how to protect your property visit: http://www.northumbria.police.uk/advice_and_information/crime_prevention/vehicle_security/index/index.asp