Audis top target for car key burglars

POLICE are warning motorists to keep keys hidden away at home after a spate of “two-in-one burglaries”.

They report a rise in the incidence of burglars breaking into homes to steal car keys, making their getaway in the owner’s pride and joy.

A police spokesman added: “High valued vehicles are most at risk and the most popular of these vehicles is the Audi. These vehicles are virtually impossible to steal, so criminals are breaking into houses in order to take the car keys.”

Chris Squires, crime reduction officer for Rotherham and Barnsley, said: “We are doing everything we can to prevent and detect these type of offences.

“I would urge the public to assist us by keeping their homes secure, as it only takes a second to sneak-in and steal car keys, remove car keys from view and, where possible, take them upstairs to bed.”

One third of thieves compromise front door locks using techniques known as lock snapping or lock bumping, while two thirds simply fish through letter boxes or sneak in.

Advice to reduce the risk of falling victim includes replacing front door locks with Sold Secure Diamond tested cylinders and fitting wheel clamps on cars while parked outside the home.

For more information on approved snapping and bump-proofed locks visit www.soldsecure.com.

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