A new device allows thieves to use people’s car keys to respond to a remote frequency to unlock cars which has been raising local panic in West Bridgford, Nottingham.
This past week more than 5 incidents of cars being broken into have happened been reported by authorities around the area.
Raff Stravino, 48, was one of the victims. He was aware of the Facebook posts about the car thefts, however the owner of an Audi with wireless keys was himself a victim being stolen a pair of gloves, ipods, some loose change and a mess left behind.
“I think people will be more vigilant. Funny how even after the Facebook posts I left my keys near the house door.” Mr Stravino said.
“The amount of money we pay West Bridgford should mean more police force, they showed up around yesterday, but it is a bit late now isn’t it?”
Raff Stravino, 48, west bridgford resident
Jayne, 55, a concerned neighbour said: “It hasn’t happened to me personally. That’s because I keep my keys in a Faraday box, which blocks the signals.
They’ve rummaged in cars and taken belongings. Twice in a week they’ve stolen vehicle registration documents which have been left in cars.”
The West Bridgford Councillor Penny Gowland, believes that the community should be vigilant and advises to contact the police as soon as possible after possible incidents as the police will only investigate if they have evidence to chase or information on the culprits.
“The whole community is aware of this, most people are looking out, watch out for problems. We can all be helping each other and the police to stop this.
“Keep an eye for your neighbours and make sure they know what’s going on,” said Penny.
The Autosave M.D.Ltd vehicle parts shop in Nottingham has been posting on social media their solution for the current thefts that have been going around West Bridgford.
The car key signal blocker pouches have a price of £10 and are sold as a twin pack. The wireless car key goes inside the pouch and is kept inside the house or with the person and works through blocking any signals that the new devices emit.
Andy Ginn, 56, Autosave worker said: “We usually sell a couple a week, hoping for a little increase now. I believe in supporting local businesses that sell a product that can be a solution for a problem that is very out there at the moment.”
Nottinghamshire Police has been in contact, however there was no statements that can confirm police future actions on the cars break ins happening in West Bridgford.
