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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Kate Lally

People urged to close windows and lock car doors as 'rats' go on crime spree

More reports of attempted thefts from cars have come to light after footage caught out "little rats who don't flinch" outside homes across Southport.

Videos showed a person trying to enter cars on driveways and pavements in the middle of the night.

Merseyside Police issued a warning to vehicle owners after a string of incidents on Curzon Road, Langford Drive and Eastbourne Road last week.

The ECHO has since been told of "lads" reportedly trying to enter cars and sheds on Southport Road and Forest Road during the early hours of Thursday morning (April 11).

One man, who lives on Curzon Road, said the police need to "patrol the streets to stop these little crime sprees"

A police spokesman told the ECHO on Monday: “If you have seen similar suspicious behaviour or theft and have yet to come forward, please do so via our social media desk @MerPolCC, Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or call 999 if a crime is in progress.

“Your home CCTV, dashcam or doorbell footage could be vital in tracking down those responsible and bringing them to justice.

“There are also some simple measures you can take to prevent your vehicle being an easy target, so please have a read of our website.”

Officers suggest taking steps such as ensuring car doors are locked, windows and sunroofs are closed, and that all valuables are removed from vehicles.

Merseyside Police has now also confirmed it had received a report from someone living on Forest Road in Southport that an unknown person had tried the door handles on two cars parked on her driveway at around 3.10am on Sunday.

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