IPSWICH police today hailed a day of action against vehicle crime in the town as a success.

Colin Adwent

IPSWICH police today hailed a day of action against vehicle crime in the town as a success.

They used various tactics including conducting plain-clothed and high-visibility patrols in the Whitton, Chantry and Triangle estates and executing two search warrants for stolen property.

Persistent and priority offenders were visited and warned regarding future offending and the Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) team were deployed in the Nacton Road area to deal with traffic offences.

Second-hand dealers were visited and given advice on how to look out for potentially stolen property.

Police community support officers completed nearly 100 “spotter forms” for vulnerable vehicles in areas where vehicle crime has been of concern, predominantly in the Nacton Road and Whitton areas.

When the officers found cars left insecure or with items on display a form was filled in that will be passed to the local crime reduction officer.

The owners of the vehicle will then be traced and a letter sent to them advising on ways to make their vehicle less inviting for a thief.

Detective Inspector Steve Clabburn of the Ipswich area support team, who led Wednesday's operation, said: “Most of these vehicles will have been targeted because they were left insecure, or had items left on display.

“By using the spotter forms and sending the letters, we can catch vehicle owners before they become victims of crime, and give them advice to help them keep their property safe and secure.

“As well as taking steps to secure property, I would urge people to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity in their area. If you see anyone acting strangely around vehicles, call police immediately.

“If you are offered an item for sale like a sat nav or stereo in unusual circumstances or without a box, consider if the seller is genuine and if in doubt contact the police.”

Have you been a victim of crime? E-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk or write to Star Letters, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN.