We are urging vehicle owners to be vigilant following a spate of break ins in Swindon.

Over the course of the past few weeks, we have received a number of similar reports of vehicles being targeted in the town centre and Broadgreen areas of Swindon.

While we are pursuing a number of leads, we’d like to remind people of the importance of ensuring the security of your vehicle and the importance of removing all valuables from your vehicles.

Nothing which could make your vehicle a target should be left on display, including things like coats, bags and boxes. You may be aware that there is nothing valuable in them but a potential thief will not be.

We are also aware that a number of taxis have been targeted in the local area.

We would recommend that anything on taxis which identifies it as a taxi should be removed, if possible, to make it less of a target.

Sgt Davidson of the Swindon Central South Neighbourhood Team said: “We are aware that these break ins are causing concern in our communities at present and please be assured that we are pursuing a number of leads to locate and arrest the offenders.

“Vehicle security is of paramount importance.

“Thefts from motor vehicles often take place when vehicles have been left unlocked or valuables have been left on display.

“I would urge all vehicle owners to please be mindful over what you’re leaving in your car and whether it could make your vehicle a target.

“Please remove all valuables from your vehicle when leaving it unattended, including what’s in the glove box as we find that’s often what’s being stolen.

“I’d also like to highlight the importance of intelligence and information from our communities. If you see something that could be suspicious then please report it to us.

For more crime prevention advice please visit https://www.wiltshire.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/vehicle-safe-and-sound/