Police warn of sat-nav car thefts

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Newcastle car-owners have been warned to be extra vigilant at hiding their valuable belongings after several thefts in the city centre.

Opportunist car thieves have stolen hundreds of pounds worth of goods after items were left on view.

Expensive satellite navigation systems were among the stolen possessions when thieves broke into vehicles at Eldon Gardens, Terrace Place and the Great North Museum in recent weeks.

A car parked on Richardson Road had its numberplate removed, and Sergeant Paul Hamilton of Northumbria Police said: "These thefts are often the work of opportunist thieves and it's a timely reminder for all motorists to ensure their vehicles are secure at all times.

"People should make sure valuable items are taken with them or lock them away out of sight.

"With sat-nav systems, it's important no wires are left lying around and that sucker marks are cleaned off the windscreen or dashboard.

"We're doing all we can to find the people responsible for the thefts while also trying to prevent them from happening in the first place. Drivers can help us by taking these crime prevention steps."

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