Police warning over spate of Land Rover thefts in Sussex

POLICE are warning Land Rover owners to ensure their vehicles are secure after a spate of thefts in Rother, Wealden and Lewes districts over the weekend.

In the early hours of Friday April 19, it was reported someone had tried to steal a Land Rover in Grove Hill, Hailsham.

Another Land Rover was reported as stolen in Penhurst and was later found burnt out close by.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

On Saturday a dark blue coloured ‘P’ reg Land Rover Defender was reported stolen from Rotten Row, Lewes overnight.

And the thieves struck again on Sunday, when two further Land Rovers were reported stolen.

The first, a blue ‘T’ reg Defender from Silverhill, Hurst Green, was taken between 6pm and midnight but was later found by police.

The second, a blue ‘R’ reg Defender, was stolen from London Road, Hurst Green, between 10.30pm on Saturday and 6am the following day.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Police have launched Operation Thorn in a bid to catch those responsible.

Sergeant Sarah Porter, of Rother Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “I’d like to firstly urge all Land Rover owners to ensure their vehicles are as secure as they can be.

“Make them as difficult as possible to steal by using steering wheel locks and parking near your home under security lighting or/and on gravel - the more obstacles the better.

“Secondly, please report anyone acting suspiciously around any vehicle to police on 101.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

“If you believe a crime is about to take place do not hesitate to call 999.

“Lastly, if you believe you have witnessed anything, no matter how small, relating to any of these crimes, please contact us on 101 quoting Operation Thorn or serial 0265 of 21/04.

“Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers, the independent charity, anonymously on 0800 555111.”