Three out of five motorhomes recently stolen from Stewart Mouland Motorcaravans in east Sussex have been recovered thanks to hidden trackers.
The vehicles were taken from the motorhome dealer during an overnight raid.
Three of the motorhomes – a Swift Kon-tiki, Bolero and Bessacarr, together worth £180,000 – were fitted with a hidden stolen vehicle recovery (SVR) Tracker device.
They were located in three separate South London locations within hours of the theft, enabling the police to recover them quickly.
Motorhome security: How to protect a campervan from theft
Managing director at Stewart Mouland Motorcaravans, Stephen Mouland, said: “The thieves were in and out within minutes, knowing exactly what they were doing and fully prepared to get past all our physical security barriers.
“They were obviously experts and I believe that without the Tracker devices installed, the motorhomes would never have been returned.
“I would urge other retailers to check if the used vehicles on their forecourts have Trackers installed, and to get all stock protected as soon as possible.
“I am now also looking into getting devices installed at point of sale so my customers can benefit from the same protection as my business does.”
Clive Wain, head of police liaison at Tracker said: “The cost of caravans and motorhomes is increasing, alongside the growing popularity of staycations and camping and caravanning holidays abroad.
“The lack of supply of vehicles and parts is further increasing value and demand.
“At Tracker, we are seeing the impact this has on the number of thefts and the lengths criminals will go to in order to steal these highly desirable, high-value vehicles.
“As Stephen experienced, thieves are not always put off by physical barriers, so a Tracker device is an essential tool in protecting vehicles on the forecourt or on a customer’s driveway, increasing the likelihood that a stolen vehicle can be returned to its owner or the retailer.”
Don’t forget to subscribe to the Van Life Matters newsletter to stay up-to-date with the latest UK Van Life news, tips and advice.
