Quickly exit this site by pressing the Escape key Leave this site
We use some essential cookies to make our website work. We’d like to set additional cookies so we can remember your preferences and understand how you use our site.
You can manage your preferences and cookie settings at any time by clicking on “Customise Cookies” below. For more information on how we use cookies, please see our Cookies notice.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Your cookie preferences have been saved. You can update your cookie settings at any time on the cookies page.
Sorry, there was a technical problem. Please try again.
This site is a beta, which means it's a work in progress and we'll be adding more to it over the next few weeks. Your feedback helps us make things better, so please let us know what you think.
We have launched an investigation following a spate of break-ins into vans across the county, during which tens of thousands of pounds of power tools have been stolen.
In recent weeks, we have received reports of more than 45 incidents of vans being broken in to and valuable equipment then being taken. The majority of these have occurred in Salisbury, but we are now seeing similar incidents reported across the county, including in Amesbury, Warminster and Swindon.
These incidents are thought to involve the same group, with similar offences and modus operandi also seen in our neighbouring forces.
County Neighbourhoods Chief Inspector James Brain said: “We are aware that these incidents are causing a significant amount of distress to our communities.
“Each theft like this can have a severe impact upon the victim’s livelihood and business given the nature of the offence and what is being stolen.
“We are seeing a pattern of these incidents across the county, as well as outside of Wiltshire in neighbouring forces, and please be reassured that we’re working closely with our neighbouring forces to share intelligence and identify the people responsible.
“We have allocated dedicated resources towards locating the suspects and ensuring they are put before the courts.
“These incidents are thought to be occurring between around 10.30pm and 2am, with the offenders targeting multiple vehicles in the same night.
“I would urge anyone who notices someone acting suspiciously around any vehicles, potentially scouting for target vehicles, or any suspicious vehicles to report it by calling 101 or online.
“While we continue with our investigation, please ensure that you are protecting your van adequately. Thieves know that many van owners transport and store expensive tools inside – don’t make your van an easy target.”
Van owners can also follow these simple steps to reduce the likelihood of them being victims of crime: