OWNERS of Land Rovers and Range Rovers have been warned to be vigilant after it emerged criminals had been specifically targeting the vehicles during a spate of thefts.

OWNERS of Land Rovers and Range Rovers have been warned to be vigilant after it emerged criminals had been specifically targeting the vehicles during a spate of thefts. Four of the high-value 4x4 vehicles have been stolen in Essex in the past week, police have confirmed.

Three Range Rovers and a Freelander were taken after burglars broke into the owners’ homes to find keys to the vehicles.

Police now believe that Land Rover vehicles are being specifically targeted by thieves.

The latest theft happened at about 1.30am today when a �42,000 Land Rover Vogue was stolen from outside a property Springfield, Chelmsford. Intruders broke in through the front door to find the keys.

A Land Rover Freelander and a safe, together valued at �20,500 were stolen on August 30 after a burglary at White Roding.

Thieves also struck at home in Witham between 11pm on August 27 and 2.30am the next day and stole a Range Rover and others items, worth �27,000.

A Range Rover worth more than �40,000 was stolen from Black Notley on the same night between 11pm and 6.30am although the �40,000 vehicle was later found in Witham.

Chief Superintendent Michelle Dunn, commander of Essex Police’s Central division, said: “The majority of these offences happen in the early hours of the morning when most people are sound asleep.

“”We are working hard to tackle this type of crime but we urge everyone to be vigilant at all times and let us know immediately if you hear noises, or see any suspicious activity or unusual cars in your area late at night.”

And Detective Chief Inspector Mark Wheeler said: “There are a few simple steps that people can take to make themselves even safer.

“Ensure that you keep your keys somewhere safe and out of sight. Do not leave cash, bags and wallets lying around. Please keep all accessible doors and window closed and locked.

“If you have uPVC doors, please ensure that you lock the door with the key - just pulling up the handle does not deadlock the door. If you have a garage, please try to lock your vehicle away safely inside it.”

Anyone with information about any of the thefts should contact detectives at Braintree or Chelmsford on 0300 3334444, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.