Truck theft is most rife in Sussex, according to insight obtained through Freedom of Information requests.
Specifically, since 2020, the county’s police force (Sussex Police) has recorded 87 instances of truck theft.
In addition, that’s 20 more than any the next highest force, which was Hertfordshire Constabulary.
The news broke in the lead up to Christmas – typically one of the busiest time on the roads for trucks.
Hostile vehicle mitigation system supplier Heald revealed the information.
It looked at HGV thefts in the last three years and highlighted how haulage companies could protect themselves.
In total, Freedom of Information requests were sent to 45 UK police constabularies.
However, of those contacted, 18 failed to respond.
Meanwhile, a further 11 refused to provide the requested information.
Included in the FOI data provided to Heald, 10 dropsides were stolen in Sussex over the three years.
Furthermore, in 2021, four flat-bed trucks were stolen.
Finally, between 2020 and 2022, some 20 tippers were pinched from drivers.
The Freedom of Information requests reveals specific locations relating to truck theft.
For example, the vehicles were stolen in Sussex from streets/roads, industrial estates and open-air car parks.
Lay-bys were also targeted by thieves who were looking to apprehend vehicles.
Meanwhile, in Bedfordshire, 11 HGVs were stolen in 2020 and a further 10 in 2021.
At the time of the report being written, a further 17 trucks had been stolen in 2022.
Towns targetted in Bedfordshire included Luton, Kempston and Bedford.
Heald managing director, Debbie Heald MBE, urged action:
“To help stop truck theft, haulage companies should consider implementing physical security products.
“While there may be the initial investment to consider, communities will not only have access to a vital resource,” she continued.
“In addition, the financial loss and impact on insurance claims will also be lessened.”
