Former Mayor Ian Duckworth warns "keep keys safe" after car is stolen amidst increase in vehicle crime

Former Mayor Ian Duckworth is warning local residents to keep personal belongings safe after his car was stolen.

Mr Duckworth’s car was stolen at the end of January, as was his wife, Christine’s, handbag.

He says there have been similar cases in the Buersil and Balderstone area, with cars being abandoned in the Syke area.

Police say there has been a ‘spike’ in burglary and vehicle crime in Rochdale since Christmas.
 

Read more: Spike in burglary and vehicle crime in Rochdale, say policePublished: 26 January 2021

Mr Duckworth said: “There have been at least four similar cases in the area recently, with two cars a time taken from different houses at around the same time. Their modus operandi is to drill through the locks on side and rear doors. They then take car keys and handbags. Any other keys attached are usually disposed of nearby and cards are taken from handbags and then the handbag containing purses are thrown away too.”

Mr Duckworth’s car was recovered and taken to a garage, where he had to pay £250 to get it back. The handbag was also returned, but missing money and a debit card.

He continued: “A kind lady from near Buckley Lane turned up with Christine's handbag. Other cards and her driving licence were still in her purse.

“The police phoned up the same day and said they were not doing any forensics on the car as criminals would have been wearing gloves and said therefore they were closing the case.”

No items of value were taken from the car, but Mr Duckworth notes that “it stank of cannabis and tobacco.”

The veteran added: “I don't think the police recognise the seriousness of these home invasions, which is why I want to warn Rochdale Online’s readership of the importance of taking keys, handbags and similar personal items to their bedrooms at night.

“I worry that if a householder disturbs these people, it may end with him or her suffering serious injuries or worse, as every kitchen is full of large sharp knives.

“I never want to hear that old mantra of ‘lessons have been learned’ when it's all too late.”

Greater Manchester Police has been contacted for comment.

Crime prevention advice

• Use light timers to make your house look occupied
• Lock all windows and doors and set your burglar alarm
• Consider driveway security like a security bollard or CCTV
• Lock your vehicle every time you leave it and remove personal items
• Keep keys safe, out of sight, away from open windows and out of reach of hook and canes
• A steering or wheel lock can be enough of a deterrent to stop a thief
• Invest in a faraday bag - they are lined with metal material and can block the key's signal
• Consider the use of a padlock on patio doors
• Upgrade your door lock
• Invest in a tracking device - it won't stop your vehicle being stolen, but it can significantly increase your chances of police locating and returning a vehicle to the rightful owner

If you see anything suspicious ring 101; if a crime is in progress ring 999.