Rise in Rotherham car crime as thieves using 'ever-more sophisticated' methods

In some cases, offenders appear to be using a device to unlock cars and steal items or the vehicle itself.

Keyless entry vehicles are the most popular with thieves, South Yorkshire Police says, with Fords targeted in high numbers.

Det Insp Lee Wilson said: “Having your car stolen, whatever make or model it is, is distressing and costly, and unfortunately, criminals are using ever-more sophisticated methods to successfully steal vehicles and items from them.

“However, we know that crime prevention does work and often the simple old-fashioned measures are the best, such as steering wheel locks and foot pedal locks, which purely put criminals off even having a go at your car.

“Always make sure you carefully consider where your vehicle is parked, and if you’ve got a keyless car, please also get yourself a signal blocking pouch, container or box to keep your keys in – they really do work.”

Vehicle tracking systems, immobilisers, CCTV and secure parking spots are among other measures suggested by SYP.