Coventry police warning to all drivers over 'pinch-and-park' tactic

[dutchman]

They say it is a strategic move being made by thieves to check whether a tracker is fitted



Coventry police officers have issued a warning over a 'pinch-and-park' tactic. They say car thieves are using the new method to steal vehicles.

In their latest community update, the Sherbourne Neighbourhood Policing Team said stolen cars can appear parked on roads nearby. "This is a strategic tactic sometimes known as the “pinch and park” where a thief shortly after stealing a vehicle will park it up for a few days in a residential area so it blends in," he team said.

"This is to see if there’s a tracker fitted. If you have any suspicions about a vehicle on your road please let us know, we will gladly check it out."

The team said there had been several reports of vehicle crime in the area. On Tuesday, July 22, at 2.40 am a resident in Haynestone Road woke up to hear their car alarm going off. The car door had been opened but nothing had been taken.

A Renault Captur was entered on Tarlington Road was also targeted and £2 stolen from inside. "Please help us by keeping valuables out of sight," the team said.

"If you see vehicle crime taking place (including people trying car door handles) please dial 999 immediately."