Sudden increase in van crime in the Horsham district

At least five vehicles have been broken into, items including power tools have been stolen, and thieves have attempted to break into further vans.

Two vehicles parked in Storrington and one in Steyning were targeted between Monday November 17 and Tuesday November 18.

Power tools were stolen in the incidents, which took place in Rowan Close and Sullington Copse, both in Storrington, and Shooting Field in Steyning.

Thieves targeted three vans in Rudgwick a week later, overnight on Monday November 24 and Tuesday November 25.

Two vehicles were broken into and a third had its locks tampered with. The crimes occurred in The Marts,Princess Anne Road and Bridge Road.

On a separate occasion, items were stolen from the roof of a van parked near Horsham town centre, according to police.

Horsham police said items targeted include drills, screw guns, chain saws, a hedge trimmer, disc cutters and circular saws.

Police have issued crime prevention advice to van owners across the district.

Tools and equipment should be removed from the van when possible, well-lit and secure parking areas should be used, doors should be locked and windows closed, and items should not be left on display.

Police have asked anyone offered tools for sale in suspicious circumstances to contact police on 101 or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.