Dorset Police news site

Officers investigating a series of thefts from vans across Dorset are issuing advice and asking anyone with information to come forward.

In October 2024, there have been a number of incidents where vans have been targeted and tools have been stolen. The incidents are primarily occurring in the North Dorset area, including Gillingham and Shaftesbury.

Despite the vehicles being securely locked, entry has been forced to the side doors.

The Dorset Police Rural Crime Team is carrying out an investigation into the series and following a number of lines of enquiry to identify those responsible.

Officers would like to remind the public of the below crime prevention measures to help reduce tool theft:

• Keep your vehicle locked at all times, even if unattended for a few minutes. Physically check doors are locked before walking away.
• Consider fitting a secure lockable tool box or cage in the rear of your van, which can be bolted to the cargo floor. Look for security boxes that have been tested and certified to a Silver Standard (or equivalent) by www.soldsecure.com and approved by www.securedbydesign.com.
• Fit a small wireless PIR motion alarm (used for sheds/garages) in the rear of your van. These are available from DIY stores and online and usually retail between £20 and £30.
• Mark tools overtly (spray paint tools with a bright colour paint) and covertly (consider forensic marking such www.selectamark.co.uk or www.smartwater.com) so they are easily identifiable. Marked items are less desirable and more difficult to sell on. Register tools for free on the national property register www.immobilise.com.
• Park vans in well-lit areas and where possible, near CCTV cameras.
• Consider retrofitting vibration alarms that will activate on contact.

Police Constable Lauren Middleton, of the Rural Crime Team, said: “The theft of tools can have a significant impact on a victim and their livelihood.

“We are doing all we can to tackle these offences and are working with partners from across the region to target those responsible.

“I would ask anyone with information in relation to these thefts to please contact Dorset Police.”

If you would like bespoke advice, please contact our Crime Prevention Design Advisor Debbie Oldfield at crimeprevention@dorset.pnn.police.uk. Please note this email cannot be used for reporting crime.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55240154874. Alternatively, independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling Freephone 0800 555 111.