Between Monday 3 and Saturday 8 June 2024, four Mercedes and BMW cars were stolen in the Kennington, Kingsnorth and Ashford areas. All of the thefts are believed to have been carried out using keyless entry systems, also known as ‘relay thefts’.
An investigation by detectives from Kent Crime Squad is ongoing and anyone with information which may assist should call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting reference 46/92840/24.
You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form.
While the incidents are investigated, officers are giving the following advice to owners of cars with keyless entry systems:
- When at home, keep your car key and any spares well away from the car.
- Put the keys in a screened or signal-blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag, and check if the bag or pouch is still working every few months.
- Reprogram your keys if you buy a second-hand car.
- Turn off wireless signals on your fob when it’s not being used.
Further advice on how to prevent car theft is here: https://www.kent.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/preventing-car-vehicle-theft/