EADT and Ipswich Star support Suffolk police stay alert campaign

The papers are backing the force as it urges those living in the region to stay vigilant and take action to avoid their vehicles being targeted.

Suffolk Constabulary's Stay alert and secure leaflets will be among the items in this week's goody bags which will be available outside Ipswich Town's game against Leicester City on Saturday.

The anti-car theft poster from Suffolk Police (Image: Suffolk Police)

It is all part of the police's commitment to keeping Suffolk safe.

Liz Nice, editor of the Ipswich Star and East Anglian Daily Times, said: "We are so thrilled to be supporting our police and the council on this really important initiative." 

As part of their work, officers will continue their offensive approach to review all crimes, make enquiries and take action against identified offenders. 

There will be further crime prevention work including increased visual patrols in targeted areas and working with Ipswich Borough Council.

The force says among the steps residents can take is to carry out physical checks to ensure vehicles are locked, remove valuable items and look to park their vehicles where there is sufficient security lighting to act as a deterrent.

Taking steps like this can help provide better CCTV images as well as video captured on ring doorbells.

Sergeant Ben Butler of the investigation development team said: “Suffolk Constabulary is working in partnership with Ipswich Borough Council to target theft from motor vehicles across the Ipswich area.

“In addition to this vehicle owners are being urged to secure their vehicles and remove any items of value from display.

“Over 90% of all offences are committed by offenders gaining entry to insecure vehicles before rummaging through personal belongings, please do not make it easy for these opportunists.

“Police have conducted a number of arrests in August and September and one prolific offender has received a custodial sentence."