Police Response to Thefts of Vehicles

Thames Valley Police is aware and incredibly concerned about the rise in thefts of vehicles in the Henley area recently.

Overnight on 4 May 4 Mercedes were stolen from St Marks Road, Cromwell Road, Vicarage Road and Newtown Gardens. A BMW and Mercedes were stolen overnight on 15/16 May from St Andrews and Manor Roads.

A statement from TVP said, “We have seen a number of vehicles that have ‘stop/start’ button ignitions stolen, whereby offenders have been able to relay the key signal from inside the house using a specially-made device. Because of this method offenders are often able to make their escape without disturbing owners.

The rise in this type of crime is something many forces nationwide are seeing, and something TVP is taking very seriously. We have coordinated a multi-disciplinary approach to tackling these offenders, and residents can expect to see a rise in police presence around Henley, especially in the early hours when these offences are typically taking place. Rest assured we are doing everything we can to prevent this type of crime, and to catch offenders responsible.

If residents own a vehicle that can be started without physically inserting a key into the ignition, there are a few things we can advise to help prevent this type of theft happening to you. Firstly keep keys as far from the car as is practicable, to help reduce the chance of the signal being relayed. Secondly ‘Faraday’ pouches or boxes are specifically designed to block the key signal. Keeping your keys in one of these will reduce the risk of the signal being relayed to start the ignition. More robust defences can also be applied, for example a steering lock or a bollard on a driveway will reduce the chances of offenders being able to drive the vehicle away, should they gain access.”

TVP would encourage anyone to get in touch should they see anything they believe may be relevant. If it is an emergency please dial 999, for all other updates please call 101, and quote crime reference number 43230193606.