Motorists warned following arrests relating to vehicle crime in Chartham

Motorists are reminded to remain vigilant following arrests in relation to reports of cars being targeted in Chartham near Canterbury.

Kent Police was called at 6.45am on Wednesday 8 July 2026 to Updown Way, where it is reported that keys were taken from a property overnight and a car was stolen.

Vehicles targeted

Further reports were received that vehicles nearby were tampered with, and that cash was stolen from a car that was rummaged through.

Officers attended and initial enquiries were completed at the scene, including reviewing CCTV and speaking with witnesses.

The next day, three boys, aged 15, 16 and 17, were arrested in connection with the reports. They have since been bailed with conditions while enquiries continue.

Appeal

An investigation is ongoing and officers are urging anyone with relevant information, including doorbell footage or CCTV, to contact them.

Witnesses should call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting 46/110781/26. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or use the online form.

Police Sergeant Georgia England said: ‘Vehicle crime is often opportunistic and, while officers are investigating recent reports, I would like to remind motorists of how best to protect their personal property.‘Make sure all valuables are removed from vehicles overnight, lock all doors and ensure that all windows, including sunroofs, are fully closed, even when it’s hot.‘Never leave anything of value on display and, wherever possible, park in a garage or a well-lit secure car park. Also, remember to remove any suction marks left by electronic devices from windscreens or dashboards.’

For further advice, visit the dedicated pages on the Kent Police website.