Surrey Police have warned homeowners after a spate of burglaries and car thefts across north Surrey.


Officers are investigating four burglaries in Esher, Ashford and Virginia Water where high value cars were targeted by thieves.


On three occasions, thieves broke into the house to steal car keys.


The most recent incident took place in Courtlands Avenue, Esher, between 1.45am and 6.15amon Wednesday, July 18.


Thieves broke in to the house and stole two sets of car keys which they used to steal a gold Mini Cooper and a grey Audi A6 parked on the driveway.


On Tuesday, July 17, thieved stole a black Audi A6 from Little Orchard Place in Esher overnight.


It is believed the keys were left under a wheel arch.


Detective Sergeant Chris Friday said: “We are now investigating a number of burglaries where vehicles, specifically Audis, have been taken.
 

“On one occasion the Audi has fortunately been recovered but only because it had been fitted with a tracking device.
 

“Our advice to homeowners is not to leave their car keys where they are visible or easily to hand.
 

“We would also like to remind homeowners not to leave valuables in their cars even if the vehicles are locked and secured as thieves will think nothing of smashing a window to get to something they think is worth taking.
 

“We would also like to issue a specific warning to Audi owners to be particularly mindful of their security and to make sure their cars are fitted with tracker devices so that if they are stolen they can be located and recovered.”
 

Vehicle theft and theft from vehicles make up almost a third of all reported crime and can and one-in-four vehicles reported stolen each year is never recovered.
 

Those that are recovered can be damaged beyond repair and it can take several weeks for insurance claims to pay out.
 

Call Surrey Police on 101 quoting RM/12/3585, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 if you have information about the thefts.