‘Keep Car Keys Out of Sight’ Warn Police Following Surrey Burglaries

Published on: 28 Oct, 2013
Updated on: 28 Oct, 2013

Residents are being warned by Surrey Police to keep car keys safe and out of sight, following a series of burglaries across the county.

Officers have been called to a number of incidents over the last week in which burglars have stolen keys from inside properties and then driven off in the victim’s vehicle.

Detective Inspector Clive Vale, said: “Most thieves are opportunistic and if a burglar can see your car keys on display they know they can be in and out of the property and driving away in your vehicle in a short space of time.

“By searching for your keys, the offender is putting themselves at more risk of being caught and knows that their search may be fruitless. On the balance of probabilities they may just decide it isn’t worth it.

“Crime prevention need not be costly or time consuming but the consequences of not securing your home or vehicle could be. Just taking the few minutes to check all your doors and windows are closed and locked may be all it takes to put a prospective burglar off and save you the hours and heartache of having to try and claim for and replace stolen property.”

Burglaries where keys and the vehicle has been stolen have occurred in Guildford, Farnham and Camberley as well as other towns across the county.

Anyone who has information on those responsible for such thefts is urged to contact Surrey Police on 101 quoting Operation Candlelight. If you would like to provide information anonymously the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted on 0800 555 111.