POLICE are urging motorists to be vigilant following a spate of vehicle crime across East Hampshire.

An increased number of thefts from secure Ford Transit vans have been reported to Hampshire Constabulary over the last month.

In a Country Watch message, East Hampshire police community support officer Darryl Hook explained how thieves are operating.

“It would appear that entry is being gained to Ford Transit vans using a Ford Tibbe pick and decoder tool which is readily available to buy online for around £20,” he said.

“Please take extra precautions to prevent this type of crime happening to you. The local neighbourhood policing team will remain committed to supporting victims of crime and targeting offenders.”

Tibbe keys are, the message explained, high-security keys introduced by Ford Motors in 1982. They are recognisable by their relatively rounded tip, with three varying angles cut into eight ridges.

The Ford Tibbe pick and decoder tool was designed for locksmiths and is considered one of the most effective picking tools in the business.

A locksmith, or a thief, can pick and decode the Ford Tibbe lock in seconds, including door, boot and even ignition locks.

Often, however, thieves are targeting items within the vehicle, in recent cases tools, and not the vehicle itself.

Hampshire Constabulary issued the following advice to East Hampshire residents:

* Park your vehicle in a secure area (in a garage or behind locked gates, if possible). If you can’t, park in a well-lit street in easy view of your own or neighbours’ houses.

* Where possible, remove valuable items from the vehicle overnight and store them in a secure place;

* Do not leave tools or equipment on view inside the vehicle;

* Consider fitting an appropriate alarm system, protecting the cabin and load areas;

* Apply a security marking product to power tools and equipment. Alternatively, etch or emboss identifiable marks to these items;

* Consider installing secure storage containers or lockers in the van to store tools in;

* Ensure that the van doors are securely lockable and consider having suitable deadlocks installed;

* Make sure to physically check that the van doors and windows are locked if you have used the remote to lock the vehicle, even if the feedback indicates the van as locked;

* When visiting businesses, try to park close to the entrance and preferably in the view of CCTV;

* Fit a Ford Transit door lock protector;

* Log your property free atimmobilise.com.

The statement added: “Please ensure you are vigilant at all times, calling police to report any suspicious activity, not just around your own property but anything suspicious in your residential area and community.

“In an emergency use 999, or 101 for non-emergency calls. Remember, it’s never too late to contact the police.”