A WARNING has been issued after thousands of pounds worth of tools were stolen from a van in the Cirencester area.
 
A large number of tools worth around £5,000 - including an extractor, hacksaw, battery router and drills - were stolen from a van parked in Elizabeth Way, Siddington between 6.30pm and 9.30pm on Wednesday, May 1.

Police believe that the thieves broke into the vehicle by drilling into the van's back door.

Officers have asked anyone with information about this incident to come forward.

Information can be provided to the police by completing a form on Gloucestershire police's website quoting incident number 478 of May 1.

Gloucestershire police has issued the following advice for van owners:

  •  Remove tools from vans or consider fitting a tool safe.
  • Keep your van locked and valuables out of sight.
  • Try to park in well-lit areas, preferably covered by CCTV, and if possible park against walls or hedges that could prevent doors being opened without moving the van. 
  • Request extra security at hotels if you are staying overnight.
  • Fit an alarm.
  • Fit new locks.
  • Mark property with the name of your company, the postcode, house or building number or name - ideally mark them overtly with paint pens and then seal down the marking with a clear lacquer spray. Items that are overtly marked are less desirable and more difficult to sell on.