Police issue advice for drivers

Police have issued fresh advice as they crackdown on vehicle crime in Kent.

Last month, officers made 14 arrests, recovered eight stolen vehicles and seized six others that were being driven with cloned numberplates.

The year ending October 2025 saw a 19% reduction in vehicle thefts in Gravesham and a 13% decrease in Dartford compared to the previous 12-month period.

Now, the force has issued some advice:

• Always keep keys and ignition fobs out of sight and reach, and keep them in a signal-blocking pouch such as a Faraday bag.

• Close and lock windows and doors if leaving your vehicle unattended.

• Consider installing an alarm if your vehicle does not already have one, and a tracker system to improve the chances of it being recovered if stolen.

• Physical security products such as a steering wheel or gearstick lock still act as good deterrents.

• Where possible, always park in a well-lit area with good CCTV coverage.

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