Almost 20 vans have been targeted in just over a week in a spate of power tool thefts in east Suffolk.

The crimes took place between Monday, October 23, and this morning, October 31, across 10 towns and villages.

Officers are appealing for witnesses to the incidents and advising van owners to step up their security measures.

The thefts and attempted thefts took place at:

• Steeple View in Lowestoft

• Kilbourn Road, Honeysuckle Close and Cranesbill Road in Pakefield

• Ridgeville and Elmdale Road in Carlton Colville

• Church Road in Kessingland

• Throckmorton Road and Waveney Road in Bungay

• Allington Road and Oak Way in Halesworth

• The Street in Bramfield

• Victoria Terrace in Fressingfield

• Main Road and East View in Kelsale

• Saxon Road in Saxmundham

• College Road and De Vere Close in Framlingham

Officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have noticed any unusual activity or suspicious vehicles in these areas over the past week. Anyone with information is asked to contact Suffolk Police on 101.

Suffolk Police is also advising van owners to consider extra measures to reduce the risk of being a victim of crime.

These include physically checking van doors are locked, not leaving items on display, parking in a garage or secure area and with your doors against a wall where possible, removing tools from the van and being more aware when unloading.

Other measures include installing motion activated CCTV on your driveway, setting an alarm or immobiliser, bolting a cage or box to the base of the van which can be padlocked and marking all tools.

Information on police approved products can be found at www.securedbydesign.com and tools can be registered for free at www.immobilise.comOfficers are also urging anyone offered tools in suspicious circumstances not to buy them and to report it to police immediately via 101. You can also contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.