Police send message to Sheffield shoppers as thieves snatch shopping from cars

South Yorkshire Police have warned shoppers to be vigilant following a sharp increase of call outs to vehicle break-ins in supermarket car parks during the coronavirus lockdown.

By Lloyd Bent

Published 26th Mar 2020, 09:57 BST

Updated 26th Mar 2020, 09:58 BST

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It comes as supermarkets limit what people are allowed to buy to prevent panic buying and ensure everybody has access to what they need.

Mark Raynor, of South Yorkshire Police said: “Please can you be more vigilant when shopping at supermarkets and take the following steps.

“Do not leave any shopping unattended in your car, as we have had numerous incidents of cars being broken into whilst in supermarket car parks.

“Do not leave any items on display, make sure you lock your car even if you are taking your shopping trolley back. Make sure your shopping is with you at all times.”

The spike in thefts at supermarkets comes amid a spate in Sheffield, which included a nurse having her shopping stolen from her car while she worked.