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07:25 28/02/2022
Lincolnshire Police have had an increase in reported incidents of Land Rover Defenders being targeted for theft offences.
Traditional Land Rover Defenders are increasingly in demand since production ceased in 2016. The NFU confirm that by 2019 the cost of Defender theft increased by 34% to 2.1m, with stolen vehicles often being broken up for black market spares.
Here in Lincolnshire, since 1st April 2021, there have been 19 Defenders stolen and one attempted theft. In addition to this, 12 Defenders have been targeted specifically for parts.
Today, our Crime Reduction Tactical Advisor, Sally Picker, is highlighting what you can do to protect your Defender. Sally explained, “Sadly, these vehicles have increasingly become a target for criminals. We know that the impact of such a theft goes way beyond the financial loss. It can be hugely inconvenient, upsetting and frightening. So we wanted to provide information and advice to help you keep your defender safe.”
To make your Defender as secure as possible, please consider the following recommendations, ensuring you purchase good quality, wherever possible, secured by design products, or those tested to the appropriate recognised standard.
Alarms and immobiliser systems
Consider installing an accredited alarm, immobiliser, hidden battery isolation or fuel cut-off switch. Criminals often exploit known weaknesses in manufacturer fitted standard security systems. A professionally installed aftermarket product protects the vehicle further and reduces the risk of being targeted.
Tracking
Consider fitting a Thatcham CAT5 approved multi-band (GPS /GSM/VHF) tracking system. Have it installed by a professional fitter and advertise it by displaying window stickers. Effective Thatcham CAT5 systems are expensive to install and have high annual fees. They also need robust locating networks in place to help in the recovery of stolen vehicles quickly.
Cheaper trackers outside of the CAT 5 category will not be as effective. They can be easy to compromise, and we do not recommend their use.
Marking
Marking your vehicle makes it more difficult to sell it on for its parts or hide its identity behind false number plates.
There are various marking systems for vehicles, ranging from glass engraving to full vehicle marking. Use systems approved by Thatcham or that comply with the requirements of Loss Prevention Certification Board for both Asset Marking Systems and databased registers.
Ensure that you advertise that your vehicle is marked and registered by displaying warning stickers on your windows to act as a deterrent.
Parking
Keys
Physical security
Fit additional security devices such as a pedal box and a steering wheel lock which are visible to the criminal and act as a good deterrent. These items still have great value and offer you a good deal of protection at little cost.
To prevent parts being stolen from your vehicle (usually bonnets, doors and wings) additional security can be used:
Report it
If you have been a victim of crime and are in immediate danger, call us as soon as it is safe to do so on 999.
If you discover that your vehicle has been stolen, report it by calling us on 101 or complete our online crime reporting form.
More help and support
See our section on theft from motor vehicles for further advice on protecting your vehicle from break-ins.
For further advice or recommendations, contact our Crime Reduction Tactical Advisers
Email: [email protected]