Police are hunting for thieves who have been targeting vehicles left by commuters in a car park.

People who leave their vehicles in the car park in School Lane, Benfleet, have been left counting the cost after a spate of robberies.

Sgt Kevin Diable-White, said the car park is used mainly by commuters as it is close to Benfleet railway station.

He said: "The commuters park in the car park early in the morning and often do not return back to it until late in the evening.

"I would strongly advise people using the car park not to leave any valuables in their vehicles. If this is not possible then it would be better to lock the items in the boot out of sight."

Sgt Diable-White said in the latest incident, three vehicles were broken into on Friday. A Sony CD and radio cassette player and a selection of CDs were stolen from a green Citroen Saxo after thieves smashed one of the vehicle's windows.

A blue Rover 216 car also had its windows smashed but nothing was taken and the stereo from a maroon Ford Fiesta was stolen after its door was forced open.

Anyone with information about these incidents should contact Benfleet police on 01268 756221.

Published Tuesday, June 3, 2003

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