A SPECIAL lorry and trailer warning lorry drivers of the dangers of truck crime has arrived in Oxfordshire.

The so-called Truckpol trailer is parked off the A34 at Weston-on-the-Green and on Monday it will be off the A34 in Chieveley.

Police said the aim of the trailer was to make drivers aware of the threats of freight crime.

Sam Stimpson, from the Force Intelligence Bureau, said: "So far this year there have been 83 incidents of freight crime in the Thames Valley area. Of these, 34 occurred on the A34.

"Most of these were theft from lorries, but there were four incidents of hijackings in the force. "During these incidents the lorry drivers have been woken up and then kidnapped either kept in the lorry and driven by offenders or sometimes transferred to another vehicle and then driven away.

"These incidents are obviously very traumatic for the victim and using this trailer, we want to make drivers aware of the risks."

Truckpol issues the following advice to drivers:

  • Be alert to the threat. Your lorry is your livelihood. Plan your route in advance wherever possible and avoid regular routes and stopping places. Organised criminals will observe drivers and vehicles for a period of time to build up information about routes, lorry movements and drivers prior to carrying out their crimes. Avoid discussing what you are carrying with other drivers and customers.
  • Do not leave keys in the ignition. Nearly half of stolen vehicles are stolen when keys are left in them. Always lock the vehicle and take the keys with you, even if you are only away for a short time. It takes seconds for a thief to drive your vehicle away and if keys are left in the ignition, your insurance may be invalidated.
  • Lock your cab when driving and when you leave it. The most commonly stolen item is drivers' personal kit, including telephones, wallets and other personal effects from unattended unlocked cabs. Lock your doors when out on the road to stop thieves from simply climbing up into the cab from the passenger door.
  • Protect your identity, including documents and company issued clothing. Thieves use shipping orders, consignment notes and company paperwork along with high-visibility clothing to impersonate you and collect loads.

For more detailed advice, visit www.truckpol.com