The PSNI has issued a warning following a series of thefts from BMW cars in the Mid Ulster area by thieves believed to have used keyless entry technology.
Eight cars were targeted in December in Co Tyrone, as well as a further five previous incidents in September and October.
Three cars were targeted in Coalisland and five in Cookstown this month as well as a break-in in Magherafelt in October and another car targeted in Cookstown in September.
Two vehicles were broken into in Magherafelt and one in Portadown.
Police said that in all but one of these incidents the “perpetrators have gained access to the cars using keyless entry technology”.
Electronic starters, electronic hand brakes, steering wheels, HUD displays and radios along with any personal items left in the cars were targeted.
The incidents have, to date, only affected BMW cars.
A PSNI spokesman has warned owners to take some steps to help the security of their vehicles
“With advances in technology, thieves can gain access to your vehicle by redirecting the wireless signal from your key fob so, you should establish a routine to help keep your vehicle safe, including using your garage if available to secure your vehicle and keeping all car keys (including spares) away from exterior doors and walls,” he said.
“I would recommend the use of a blocking pouch called a Faraday pouch (lined with metallic material) to help block the wireless signal from your key fob.”
The spokesman added: “Our enquiries into these incidents are continuing and I would appeal to anyone with any information which could assist with our investigation to contact detectives in Cookstown on 101.”
