Appeal Following Eastergate Attempted Tool Theft

Officers are appealing for information after an attempted theft of tools from a white Ford Transit van in West Sussex.

The incident happened in the early hours of Tuesday, 22 April, in Peckham Chase, Eastergate.

Officers have been conducting enquiries, and have issued the appeal after CCTV footage came to light.

The suspects are seen in the footage approaching and parking beside the van in a dark Audi Q7.

They attempted to gain access to the van but were disturbed by triggering the vehicle alarm.

If you witnessed this incident or have any relevant information such as mobile phone or CCTV footage, please report it to Sussex Police online or by dialling 101, quoting serial 8 of 22/04.

Further advice is available to van owners about keeping vehicles safe and preventing crime:

• Park your van in a secure, well-lit location.

• Do not leave tools on show if leaving a van unattended and consider using "there are no tools left in this vehicle" signs.

• Always store your tools elsewhere at night.

• Mark property – it is possible to mark a van and all tools with paint, permanent markers or ultraviolet pens. Similarly, take photos and keep a note of any serial numbers to prove ownership.

• If possible, park your van so the side and/or back doors cannot be accessed.

• To prevent the van itself being stolen, consider visible deterrents like a steering lock.

• If you see any suspicious activity, please report it immediately—your information could help us catch criminals in the act.

• We will not tolerate tool theft. We are determined to bring offenders to justice and keep our community safe.

More advice can be found here on the Sussex police website: Keeping vehicles safe | Crime prevention | Sussex Police