Suspected Car Thief on the Loose in Sandwich
Kent Police are hunting a man caught acting suspiciously in Sandwich in the early hours of Monday, 17 April 2023. The suspect was seen fiddling with car door handles across Sandwood Road, St Barts Road, and Poulders Gardens. Some vehicles were broken into, with cash and cards reported stolen.
Police Release Suspect Images
The force has put out photos of a man they want to question. Officers believe he may hold vital clues to the ongoing investigation.
Sergeant Gavin Rolfe of Dover Community Safety Unit said: “We hope the public recognise the clothing worn by the man in these images. We urge residents with private CCTV, doorbell cams, or dashcam footage from the evening of Sunday 16 to Monday 17 April to check for anything suspicious.”
How You Can Help—And Protect Your Car
- Witnesses should call Kent Police on 01843 222289, quoting incident number 17-0337.
- Alternatively, contact Kent CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or submit an online tip.
Car owners are warned to stay vigilant. Sgt Rolfe advises:
- Remove valuables and loose change from vehicles—never leave them on display.
- Park in well-lit, CCTV-covered spots where possible.
- Always double-check that your car doors are locked before walking away.
- Keep electronic car keys in signal-blocking pouches to foil thieves scanning for signals.
“If you spot suspicious behaviour or think your car’s been targeted, report it immediately. Call 999 if the crime is happening now, or report online at www.kent.police.uk,” Sgt Rolfe urged.
Keep your vehicle safe and help catch this thief.
