Car thieves create Orkney crime wave
Published: Feb. 8, 2008 at 6:51 PM
KIRKWALL, Scotland, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- Police in the Orkney Islands north of Scotland are dealing with a crime wave -- at least four cars stolen since Jan. 1.
Investigators say the thieves' modus operandi is simple -- they get into unlocked vehicles and turn keys that have been left conveniently, if carelessly, in the ignition and then they drive away. The thieves are believed to be people on their way home from the pub, taking the dishonest way out of walking in the cold.
In one case, a thief apparently stole a second car when the first one he took ran out of gas.
"It's an island thing," said Detective Sgt. Bob MacKenzie. "People just leave their keys in their cars. It's a way of life. People are very trusting and it has always been that way. But now we are getting more and more joyriders, and it could end tragically."
Sixty cars have been stolen in the Orkneys in seven years -- 59 of them with the keys left in the vehicle. Most have been recovered with no problems.
MacKenzie said islanders have learned in recent years to lock their house doors -- and now must do the same with their cars.
Investigators say the thieves' modus operandi is simple -- they get into unlocked vehicles and turn keys that have been left conveniently, if carelessly, in the ignition and then they drive away. The thieves are believed to be people on their way home from the pub, taking the dishonest way out of walking in the cold.
In one case, a thief apparently stole a second car when the first one he took ran out of gas.
"It's an island thing," said Detective Sgt. Bob MacKenzie. "People just leave their keys in their cars. It's a way of life. People are very trusting and it has always been that way. But now we are getting more and more joyriders, and it could end tragically."
Sixty cars have been stolen in the Orkneys in seven years -- 59 of them with the keys left in the vehicle. Most have been recovered with no problems.
MacKenzie said islanders have learned in recent years to lock their house doors -- and now must do the same with their cars.
© 2008 United Press International. All Rights Reserved.
This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
This material may not be reproduced, redistributed, or manipulated in any form.
» Next in Quirks:
UPI NewsTrack Quirks in the News
Light patterns and images are projected on Washington's National Cathedral during a "Lighting to Unite" program in Washington on May 9, 2008. Swiss lighting artist Gerry Hofstetter illuminated the south and west sides of the multi-denomination Cathedral to delight of area residents and in celebration of the Cathedral's centennial. (UPI Photo/Pat Benic)
Lights and images adorn the National Cathedral in Washington
Full Photo
| Slideshow
Latest Headlines
- Slater, GM cars to star in NBC drama
- Bill would benefit vets hurt by chemicals
- India special force to fight Maoists
- FLDS elder complains to Bush about raid
- Tailored minority asthma education works
- Poll: Bush's approval hits all-time low
- Outer Critics Circle honors 'August'
- Poor indoor air quality can trigger asthma
Most Popular
- UPI NewsTrack Quirks in the News
- British pet psychic helps find lost dog
- Man cuts car in half to make a point
- Speedo-wearing beach bum sues cops
- Baseballs bombard homes; field shut down
- Pastor says to forgive skull pot smokers
- Commander probed in nude shooting case
- Romantic teen runs afoul of girl's dad