Police warning after Chapel and Chinley van break-ins

Over the last week police have received reports of power tools being stolen after thieves forced entry into vans in the area. Incidents have taken place along Alders Meadow in Chinley, and Gisbourne Drive, Woodlands Road and Long Lane in Chapel-en-le-Frith.

The most recent incident took place overnight on Sunday, May 8 on Green Lane in Chinley. Thieves bent the side door of a van to gain entry and made off with a large quantity of tools from inside. This included Milwaukee drills, a Dewalt electric drill and saw, and a Hitachi angle grinder.

Following the thefts, officers from the local Safer Neighbourhood team will be carrying out increased patrols in hot spot areas and will be speaking to motorists, particularly van owners, about boosting the security of their vehicles.

PCSO Karen Green from the Chapel and Chinley Safer Neighbourhood Team said: “Thieves are opportunists so don’t make it easy for them by ensuring that any valuables, particularly tools, are removed from vehicles overnight and stored securely. It only takes a few minutes but can prevent a lot of hassle if it stops a thief from breaking into your vehicle.

“I will be hosting a crime prevention surgery at Morrisons on Thursday 19th May, along with a security marking event at Chapel Police Station on Saturday 21st May. Please do come along and we can help you to better protect your property from being targeted by thieves. Alternatively, get in touch and we will be happy to help”

Van owners are being encouraged to follow the below advice:

- Whenever possible, remove tools, stock and other equipment from the van, especially when leaving it overnight;

- Park in busy, well-lit areas and if possible covered by CCTV;

- Consider parking with the rear or side doors obstructed so entry and exit is made more difficult;

- Many vans will come with an alarm as standard, ensure the vehicle alarm is set when unattended;

- Always lock doors and close the windows when you are away from the vehicle, even for a short time;

- Take photographs of tools and equipment, together with the serial numbers so that any found items can be identified.

The crime prevention surgery is set to take place at Morrisons in Chapel between 3.30pm and 4.30pm on Thursday, May 19. The property marking drive will take place at Chapel Police Station on Manchester Road between 10am and 1pm on Saturday, May 21.

For further crime prevention advice, or to speak to your local Safer Neighbourhood team, call 101.