Residents reminded to stay alert following steering wheel thefts in Medway

Residents are being warned to be on their guard following several reports of steering wheel thefts in Medway.

Since 22 June 2023, more than ten BMW cars have been targeted overnight in Gillingham, Rainham, Chatham, Rochester, and Strood. Specifically, steering wheels and their attachments have been taken by thieves who gain entry by smashing the driver’s side window.

Inspector Daniel Blatter, of the Medway Community Safety Unit said:

‘These thefts leave victims with a significant repair bill. In response, we have marked and unmarked patrols in these areas looking to stop and arrest suspects. ‘In the meantime, I would advise car owners, particularly those with BMWs, to park their cars in a well-lit place, on a driveway, or in a garage, when not in use. If you see somebody acting suspiciously near a car and you think a crime is about to be committed, you should call 999.’

Further advice

There are also a number of other steps which can be taken to help prevent becoming a victim of crime:

• Secure your car with a steering wheel lock
• Remove all valuable items overnight and have them `security marked’, so it makes them harder to sell on if they are stolen
• Consider investing in CCTV and sensors which alert you when someone walks near your vehicle or enters your driveway

Anyone with information that may assist the investigation should call police on 01634 792209 quoting reference 46/114701/23. Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.