POLICE HAVE issued a warning after a series of lightning crimes across Denshaw targeting four-wheel drive vehicles.
In the attacks over one weekend, a Land Rover Defender was stolen, another stripped of valuable parts and a third damaged.
PC Mark Clough of Saddleworth North Policing Team circulated information through community associations and village networks urging vehicle owners to increase security.
He said: “It’s essential for Defender owners to take extra care. I would recommend using steering a wheel locks and block the vehicle in with another car.
“They should park close to their property under security lighting or park in a secure garage or out building.”
Police believe the thieves may be operating in organised gangs with teams stealing specific parts from three vehicles.
In the latest attacks, one Defender is believed to have lost door panels and a bonnet.
Another raid was foiled because the thieves cut though a wire alerting the owner to the attack.
Police are working on the theory that villains use the M62 motorway corridor, which could provide rapid access to Manchrster or Yorkshire.
The National Farmers Union confirmed they too have been busy with raids on Defenders in recent weeks.
Matthew Gummerson, their spokesman, said: “The Defenders are a very theft-attractive vehicle so every precaution should be taken to protect them.”
