POLICE are warning motorists after a gang of thieves targeted Land Rover Defenders to steal parts to order in raids across County Durham.

The crooks have struck twice in recent days and Durham Police suspect that a third theft in the same area several months ago is also connected.

Vehicles in Wolsingham and Stanhope have been attacked and Durham Police feel that the car parts are being stolen to order.

It is thought that the gang of thieves aim to strip the vehicles of items before using either a van or a flatbed truck to take them away.

Detective Constable Tony Kent, of Durham Police’s serious crime team in Crook, said: “If you own a Defender please check your security arrangements and do all you can to secure the vehicle.

“The thieves have clearly identified a market for these items, especially the doors.

“We are making enquiries in the area and would like to hear from anyone who might have heard of these vehicle parts being offered for sale.

“We are encouraging members of the public to be vigilant, to sign up to neighbourhood watch, farm watch in rural areas, and to report any suspicious activity.”

In one incident overnight between Sunday, December 28, and the following day thieves struck at a Land Rover Defender on Gordon Terrace, in Wolsingham.

They removed the driver’s door and the front headlights but it is believed the thieves were disturbed as they left the items at the scene.

Then on the same night a second Land Rover Defender parked in a barn at a farm, near to Stanhope, just off the A689 was targeted.

This theft is thought to have taken place between 4am and 10.45am. The bonnet, both front doors and the wing mirrors were taken.

The third theft took place in Oakenshaw, near to Willington, in July but police think the same gang could be to blame. Police enquiries are still taking place.

The vehicles in Stanhope and Wolsingham were both made originally for use by the British Army.

Anyone with information regarding the thefts should contact Det Con Kent, at Durham Police, on 101 or via antony.kent@durham.pnn.police.uk

Details can also be left anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800-555-111.