North Yorkshire Police issues warning after motorhome thefts

The North Yorkshire Police is urging motorhome owners to take extra steps to secure their vehicles after a number of recent thefts.

Three vehicles were stolen in just one fortnight in the county – thankfully, two have since been recovered.

The police warned that leisure vehicles are increasingly left unoccupied due to Covid-19 restrictions. “They may be targeted by thieves as they are often equipped to a high standard, containing expensive equipment and cycles,” a spokesman said.

On December 28, 2020, a Ford Chausson Flash C626 was stolen from Hambleton, Selby. A police witness appeal generated a good response from the public and, although the vehicle has not yet been located, two men in their 20s from the Doncaster area have been arrested in connection with its theft.

On the evening of January 7, a Peugeot Elddis Autoquest was stolen from Strensall. The police responded immediately and it was found abandoned a short time later.

Just four days later, on 11 January, a Fiat Auto-Trail was reported stolen from Fairburn, Selby. Fortunately, it was fitted with a tracker, which located it in the Doncaster area. Police recovered it and took it to a secure location for forensic examination.

“Unfortunately, it appears thieves are targeting campervans in our area, so it’s extremely important that if you own one, you double-check your security measures,” said Sergeant Stuart Grainger, of North Yorkshire Police’s Rural Taskforce.

“It’s positive that two of the stolen vehicles have since been recovered, showing that criminals will find it difficult to get away unchallenged. However, in light of these thefts, I’d urge everyone to remain vigilant, and follow our security advice.”

The North Yorkshire Police has issued the following security advice for motorhome owners:

• Write your vehicle identification number (VIN) in several hidden places within the campervan or motorhome. Use a permanent marker to write the VIN on the underside of drawers, in cupboards, and wooden surfaces. Etch the VIN onto the windows using a diamond-tipped engraver. This makes the vehicle easy to identify if it’s stolen
• Always lock all doors and windows every time you leave your campervan or motorhome. Check and lock your rooflight and gas compartment as well
• Never leave personal or valuable items on display inside the campervan or motorhome or in the awning. Consider forensic and security-marking your personal items
• Fix lock nuts or wheel clamps to the wheels
• Fit an alarm and switch it on every time you leave the vehicle –even if it’s just for a short time. Keep your keys with you at all times
• Never leave vehicle registration documents inside the vehicle. They can help a thief to sell it
• Fit a tracking device. Police will be able to track it if it is stolen.

Click here for more advice on motorhome safety and security.