West Mercia Police have reported a rise in Land Rover thefts across the region as thieves search for high-value vehicles.
The force said Land Rovers are being stolen to order as criminals aim to strip them and then ship them abroad for large sums of cash.
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A spokesperson for West Mercia Police said: “Criminals operating on behalf of gangs and other criminal organisations are trying to fill a demand from Eastern Europe and Africa for these high-value vehicles.
“They are more or less, being stolen to order.
“In many cases, the Land Rover is stripped down with high-tech parts and then shipped abroad, the rest of the vehicle either then getting destroyed or sent abroad with the various parts for large sums of cash.”
This follows several thefts, particularly across Worcestershire, including one taken within an hour of being parked at Bredon Village Hall.
How can I prevent my Land Rover from being stolen?
- Install a tracking device
- Use a steering lock
- Erect driveway security bollards
- Invest in a ghost Immobiliser
- Use a Faraday bag for keys
- Install security lighting and video doorbells
In the last two weeks, a Blue Land Rover Defender was also stolen from Hanley Swan near Upton.
West Mercia Police urges residents to remain vigilant and call 999 in an emergency if they see suspicious activity.
In a non-emergency, crimes can be reported via 101 or online through the West Mercia Police website.