Medway Police have received 33 reports of sat-nav thefts this month

A total of 33 sat-nav thefts have been reported to police since 1 December.

Two 14-year-old boys were arrested on Wednesday night in connection with the latest, in Victoria Street, Gillingham, and are being questioned.

"We are making a considerable effort stop this crime trend," said Det Insp John Coull.

"Our officers have been out in plain clothes on the trail of sat-nav thieves.

"In addition to this, police community support officers will be taking to the streets on the lookout for cars left open to a potential theft.

"They will contact the owner, either by letter or in person, and issue them crime prevention advice."

Removed from cars

A police spokeswoman said another five sat-nav thefts were reported on Tuesday and Wednesday in Gillingham and Rochester.

The stolen systems were valued at between �100 and �350.

"Motorists can take a few simple steps to prevent their cars from being a target," said Det Insp Coull.

He said portable sat-nav systems should be removed from cars when the driver leaves.

Equipment should never be left in the glove compartment and nothing should be left on view.

Sat-nav systems should be marked with a postcode and house number or vehicle registration and a note taken of the make, model and serial number.