Criminals target Salisbury Plain

From the Salisbury Journal, first published Wednesday 21st Sep 2005.

THE Ministry of Defence Police is urging motorists to take a "few sensible precautions" to protect their property from thieves when they park on Salisbury Plain.

Sergeant Mark Venning, of Salisbury Plain station, said: "Please remember that if you park your vehicle on the plain the chances are you're parking in an area which is hidden from view."

"Never leave anything on display when you park your vehicle. Even an old coat or a plastic bag can tempt a thief."

Crime analysis has shown that thieves are targeting unattended vehicles parked on Ministry of Defence property in the Wiltshire area.

Sgt Venning also warned people against riding and driving a motor vehicle on Salisbury Plain that does not comply with road traffic legislation.

"Although private property, military lands bylaws are constantly in force," he said, "The MDP regularly issues fixed penalty notices or reports for magistrates' court summonses." The MDP also has the power to seize vehicles contravening bylaws as forfeit to the Crown. Sgt Venning said: "Go-Peds and mini motorcycles are defined as mechanically propelled vehicles. Ministry of defence policy is that such vehicles will not be used on MoD land, including married quarters areas."

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