POLICE have increased patrols after a spate of thefts from vehicles in Hampshire in recent weeks.

More than 20 vehicles have been targeted by thieves in Hedge End, West End, Botley and Bursledon since the beginning of this month.

Officers are now urging residents to be vigilant, since many of the items stolen have been from vehicles that were left unlocked.

Police also confirmed that in the Hedge End area they have received around 30 reports of thefts from vehicles during the first six weeks of the year.

Sgt Catherine Manns, from Hampshire police, said: “In response to these thefts, we have increased patrols in the area, specifically targeting vehicle crime and we are currently running operations in attempt to identify those responsible.”

The Neighbourhoods Team has been patrolling areas which have high incidents of vehicle crime and have tried more than 400 car door handles, alerting owners of unlocked vehicles.

Police also checked more than 700 vehicles in Old Bursledon.

Sgt Manns said: “This issue remains a priority for us and our work in this area will continue for the foreseeable future.

“We hope that the action we have taken – and are continuing to take – will reassure residents living in the area.

“As ever, our advice to residents is to remove valuables from their vehicles and ensure that their cars are locked at all times.”

The incidents have been branded as “unacceptable” by Eastleigh councillor Jerry Hall.

He said: “Any level of crime is unacceptable. Hedge End and West End are lower-crime areas but sometimes people will visit the area to commit crimes.

“Unfortunately everyone has to be aware and take precautions. Gone are the days when we used to leave our front doors open. Now we need to make sure everything is secure.”

Hedge End councillor Louise Bloom said: “Hedge End has been targeted in the past and it looks like it has been targeted again at the moment. I’m glad that police are bringing extra resources into it and I want to remind residents to lock their cars.”

Police urge residents to take the necessary precautions.

Motorists can also log any serial numbers for items such a sat navs at www.immobilise.com.

Those who see anyone trying car door handles or acting suspiciously should call the police.