Hi-tech car theft warning to drivers at M4 service stations

Drivers have been warned that hi-tech thieves are targeting vehicles parked at motorway service stations.

Thames Valley police said there have been 14 thefts from a range of vehicles at services on the M4 in Berkshire.

In many of the cases there was no obvious sign of a break in and no damage was caused to the vehicles.

They believe the crooks could be using technology to stop people locking their vehicles before they steal from them.

Sgt Alan Hawkett of Newbury Police said: "I strongly recommend that any members of the public visiting motorway services stations anywhere in the country keep all valuable items in their possession when away from their vehicle.

"Offenders may be using technology to prevent your vehicle from locking therefore we would advise a manual check of the doors before leaving your vehicle."

Valuables were taken from cars, vans and trucks parked at Chieveley, Reading and Membury services on the M4 between 24 November and 1 December.

"I am appealing to the public who use in car dash cameras who may have been at any of the above service stations on the above dates and times to contact me," said Sgt Hawkett.

"You may have captured an offence or offender on camera. I am extremely keen to review the footage."

Anyone who can help police is being asked to call 101 using ref 409 27/11/2016, or email alan.hawkett@thamesvalley.pnn.police.uk.