Police issue appeal over Land Rover Defender thefts from the Ribble Valley

Police in the Ribble Valley are asking motorists, particularly those who own a Land Rover Defender, to be on their guard and increase security after a number of expensive vehicle thefts.
By Faiza Afzaal
Published 2nd Dec 2020, 07:00 BST
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PC Nigel Keates, of Clitheroe Police, issued an appeal via Facebook. He said: "Unfortunately, the Ribble Valley area is being targeted by thieves stealing Land Rover Defenders or parts from Defenders. Please do all you can to protect your vehicle.

"Simple steering lock devices can help enormously, a tracking device will too, consider some form of secondary hidden electronic disabling device, maybe Datatag or even hinge locking devices to deter thieves from taking parts such as doors and bonnet not cheap, but cheaper than a new bonnet.

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"Check CCTV is working, if covered by security lighting check its working correctly. Lock gates and garages, make it as difficult as possible for the thieves. With used vehicles upward of £30k a cheaper older version can be made to look newer using your stolen parts. Be wary, be vigilant, be suspicious and protect your Defender.

Police are asking people to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour to the policePolice are asking people to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour to the police
Police are asking people to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour to the police

"I understand how precious a Land Rover Defender can be to a family and the struggle to replace like for like having had friends had their Defenders stolen.

"If you see something suspicious call police on 101, if you believe you're witnessing a theft in progress don't hesitate to call 999."