Cold weather car theft trend in Cumbernauld’s housing estates

Their sole aim in a cannnily timed morning slot is to make off with cars that are left unlocked as their owner leaves to defrost them for the day ahead.

Officers say that they have dealt with a number of such cases during the recent cold snap.

The most recently reported incident saw a car stolen from the densely populated Blackwood on Monday (January 25) around 9.45am.

Inspector Neil MacLeod confirmed: “A recent trend has emerged of cars being stolen having been left unattended by the owners whilst they wait for the vehicle to defrost.

“It is apparent that there are unfortunately individuals circulating in our local housing estates particularly between the hours of 7am and 10am on the frosty mornings seeking an opportunity to steal a vehicle that is left insecure.

“Anyone who becomes aware of a vehicle or persons acting suspiciously should not hesitate to contact police to pass on any information.”

Police have also asked the public not to leave car keys in plain sight within their homes as this too provides thieves with the opportunity to gain easy access to a vehicle - which can then be simply driven away by the criminals.