Police issue appeal after a spate of vehicle thefts in and around Cotmanhay

Police officers in Ilkeston are appealing for information following a recent spate of vehicle thefts in and around the Cotmanhay area.

Initial enquiries and a CCTV trawl have been undertaken and an investigation is ongoing.  The appeal includes a request for any CCTV or witnesses to come forward.  

Officers from the local Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed any incidents of vehicle interference or those that have seen anyone behaving suspiciously in the area during the hours of 2am and 4am that has not already come forward. There is also an appeal for anyone with additional CCTV footage to make contact.

You can also anonymously contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-uk.org

One of the many priorities for Derbyshire Constabulary is combating vehicle theft. 

As more cars become keyless and automatically unlocking,  it is important to make sure everyone takes as many precautions as possible to prevent theft.

Thieves use devices that hack and amplify your car key signal to unlock your car without even needing your key, which may be stored seemingly safely in your home or pocket. 

To combat this, police officers recommend that people get hold of RFID signal blocking pouches or boxes to keep your keys in within your home. These block the key's signal to help prevent any such events from happening, however, they stressed that purchases should be made from reputable sources, one such seller that is police recommended is Sold Secure. They sell items not just for motor vehicles but also for bikes, sheds and items such as personal alarms.