A RANGE ROVER was stolen during a car-key burglary in Bishampton, Pershore.
Around 11.30pm on Tuesday, thieves broke into a property and stole the keys before escaping with the car.
Police managed to recover the vehicle the same night.
Warning to 4×4 vehicle owners
The incident happened as officers from West Mercia Police warned 4×4 owners across south Worcestershire to be vigilant, following a rise in the number of the vehicles being taken.
South Worcestershire Police want to prevent owners from becoming victims as investigations have shown some are being used for parts while others for the whole vehicle.
Criminals operating on behalf of gangs and other criminal organisations are trying to fill a demand from Eastern Europe and Africa for these high-value vehicles.
They are more or less, being stolen to order.
In many cases, the Range Rover is stripped down with high-tech parts and then shipped abroad, the rest of the vehicle either then getting destroyed or sent abroad with the various parts for large sums of cash.
Crime prevention advice
Following the revelation, West Mercia Police has offered advice on how drivers can protect their vehicles.
They are urged to install a tracking device, use a steering lock, install driveway security bollards that prevent the vehicles being driven away and invest in a ghost immobiliser.
For those with keyless entry, officers advise people use a Faraday bag or box for keys.
Installing security lighting and video doorbells is also recommended.
Droitwich Police put out a warning this week about other 4×4 vehicles being stolen nationally. As Range Rovers and Land Rovers, thieves are also targeting newer Ford Rangers and Toyota Hilux models.
Motorists are being urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity as it happens by calling 999.
Alternatively, call 101 or visit: westmercia.police.uk to file an online report.
