Car Crime Wave Hits Kent Streets: Thieves Smash Windows and Snatch Valuables
Between Monday 10 October and Sunday 16 October 2022, a spate of vehicle break-ins rocked Canterbury Road, Claremont Road, and Moorhall Avenue. The crime spree didn’t stop there — incidents were also reported in Marine Parade, Hythe, Farthing Common, and Lyminge.
Vans, Cars & Coaches Targeted in Broad Daylight
Thieves smashed windows and snatched bags, tools, keys, cash, and even a camera. One car had its window shattered, with a bag containing bank cards and cash stolen. Tools were ripped from a van, while keys and cash vanished from a coach. In Lyminge, a vehicle camera was taken.
Police Warn: Opportunist Thieves on the Prowl
“These are opportunistic thieves who will break in and grab anything from loose change to expensive tools,” warned Sergeant Sheena Maclean-Bell from Folkestone’s Community Safety Unit. “Be vigilant, lock your cars, and never leave valuables lying around.”
She urged residents to report suspicious behaviour immediately and invest in CCTV to catch the culprits.
Top Tips to Keep Your Vehicle Safe
- Don’t leave anything visible in your car, no matter how small
- Take valuables like laptops and satnavs with you
- Wipe away satnav suction marks from windows and dashboards
- Remove the car stereo if possible
- Never leave keys in the ignition
- Use an immobiliser or steering lock for older vehicles
- Park in garages, secure car parks or well-lit areas when you can
- Keep car keys out of sight inside your home
Stay alert and protect your ride – Kent’s criminals are watching!
