FOUR BMWs in Radlett and Shenley were the latest to be targeted by thieves who have been steeling wheels across Hertsmere. Overnight last Thursday, March 4, three BMWs had their wheels stolen in Gills Hill, Radlett, Permain Close and Emmett Close in Shen

FOUR BMWs in Radlett and Shenley were the latest to be targeted by thieves who have been steeling wheels across Hertsmere.

Overnight last Thursday, March 4, three BMWs had their wheels stolen in Gills Hill, Radlett, Permain Close and Emmett Close in Shenley and on a fourth occasion, the thieves were disturbed trying to steal wheels in Grace Avenue, Shenley.

Hertsmere Det Insp Mark Brown said: "Thefts of BMW wheels have occurred across Hertsmere as well as Watford and Three Rivers. I would urge all BMW drivers to think about securing their wheels if they can or by parking their vehicles in a garage or somewhere secure overnight.

"The average cost of replacing four wheels is around �3,000 not to mention an increased insurance premium and loss of car while it is being repaired. The cost of extra security is considerably less."

He added: "This is a highly unusual series of offences and we have several lines of inquiry but we need the public's assistance. Most of the thefts have been occurring on residents' driveways overnight. The thieves have access to tools that enable them to bypass the locking wheel bolts and the cars are usually left resting on bricks."

Among the police suggestions for extra security is parking with two of the wheels against a wall or next to another car to make it difficult for the thieves to access them and making them less of a target.