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Vehicle thefts increase in Ipswich with town centre hit hardest

Vehicle thefts in Ipswich rose from 46 in January to 57 in February, with seven thefts in one evening in the Stoke area.

Why it matters: Police say the recent spate shows no one can be complacent about opportunist thefts, despite a reduction at the start of the year.

The big picture: Most incidents over the past two months have occurred in and around the town centre, according to Suffolk Police.

A police car on Queen Street in Ipswich
Most incidents over the past two months have occurred in and around the town centre, according to Suffolk Police(Oliver Rouane-WilliamsIpswich.co.uk)

By the numbers: The 57 thefts reported in February represent an increase of nearly 24% from January's figures.

What they're saying: T/Inspector Naomi Lofthouse said: "We had seen a decrease in the numbers of such incidents from earlier this year, particularly over the west and east side of Ipswich, however this recent spate shows no-one can be complacent to opportunist thefts, so it is important to make it as hard as possible for criminals."

The details: Police report that commonly stolen items include:

  • Laptops

  • Earbuds

  • Games consoles

  • Expensive designer clothing

  • Wallets

What to look out for: Officers have also recorded "vehicle interference offences" where criminals try door handles to identify insecure vehicles.

What's next: Suffolk Police are encouraging people to report suspicious activity, remain vigilant and revisit their vehicle security measures.

Help me do things: Police advise motorists to:

  • Always lock vehicles, even for short periods

  • Keep windows fully closed

  • Secure items attached to the outside of vehicles

  • Take valuables with you, including mobile phones and wallets

  • Hide electronic items and their mountings from view

  • Mark tools clearly or store them in lockable boxes

  • Park in well-lit, busier areas when possible

  • Protect catalytic converters with manufacturer-approved locks

The bottom line: Anyone with information about vehicle thefts should contact Suffolk Police via their website, by calling 101, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

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