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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.
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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