Home   Tunbridge Wells   News   Article

Kent Police call for vigilance after spate of Land Rover thefts across Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks and Maidstone

A spate of Land Rover thefts across West Kent has prompted police calls for vigilance among motorists.

Since the beginning of July, 11 Land Rovers have been reported stolen from Tunbridge Wells, Tonbridge, Sevenoaks and Maidstone.

Detectives are treating the offences as linked and so far four suspects have been arrested. Four cars have also been recovered.

There has been a spate of Land Rover thefts across west Kent Picture: Paul Amos
There has been a spate of Land Rover thefts across west Kent Picture: Paul Amos

Vehicles fitted with a keyless entry system have been targeted, in some thefts.

Criminals using specialist tools are sometimes able to clone a fob’s signal and relay it to another device, allowing them to enter and start the vehicle.

DC Mark Beeching, of west Kent CID, said: "Thieves are sometimes also able to fool security systems for keyless entry vehicles.

"To prevent this we would recommend owners check if their entry fobs can be turned off overnight and to also store them away from any household entry points. "Drivers can also store their fobs in special bags, which can be bought from retailers, to prevent any unwanted communication between the vehicle and its keys.

"If you are unsure contact your vehicle manufacturer or local dealer for advice.’

Police are treating the Land Rover thefts as linked and so far, four suspects have been arrested Stock Photo
Police are treating the Land Rover thefts as linked and so far, four suspects have been arrested Stock Photo

Kent Police have also issued further advice:

Consider investing in CCTV and sensors which alert you when someone walks near your vehicle or enters the driveway.

Use a steering wheel lock.

Lock all doors and close the windows whenever you leave the vehicle.

Make sure you don't leave your car keys visible from the outside of your home.

Park in a garage, secure car park or well-lit area if possible.

Consider having windows etched with the vehicle registration number or use an invisible ink marker pen to mark these details and your postcode on the underside frame of the vehicle.

Make a note of the chassis number.

To get the latest updates in ongoing cases, police appeals and criminals put behind bars, click here.

Read more: All the latest news from Tunbridge Wells

Read more: All the latest news from Tonbridge

Read more: All the latest news from Sevenoaks

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More