Police are asking motorists to help reduce vehicle crime following an increase in offences in the Broadland area.

Since August 16 there have been 24 crimes reported to police, including 10 offences of criminal damage, seven thefts from vehicles, five interferences with vehicles and two vehicles have been stolen.

The offences have happened in various locations across Broadland with hotspot areas being Hellesdon and Sprowston.

Inspector Brian Pincher said: “There has been an increase in vehicle related offences and we urge motorists to report any suspicious behaviour/offenders to police immediately.

“To help reduce thefts from vehicles, I would like to remind motorists that they should not leave items in their vehicles overnight and especially leave items on view to thieves”.

Motorists are being offered the following crime prevention advice:

• Don’t leave anything on display in your car 
• Take your belongings with you when you leave the car - if you can’t, lock them in the boot before you start your journey 
• Fit an electronic immobiliser- this will prevent the car from starting 
• Mechanical immobilisers, such as steering wheel locks, are a good alternative to electronic immobilisers 
• Fit locking wheel nuts 
• Get an alarm installed 
• Consider marking all your valuables that you frequently take in your car 
• Lock all doors and close windows and the sun roof every time you leave your car unattended 
• If you have a garage, use it.  If you don’t always try and park in a well lit open place 
• Always lock your car and garage 

To report offences or to call police with information call 0845 456 4567, always use 999 in an emergency.