High tech cyber thieves are suspected to be behind a spate of thefts from vans in High Wycombe and Marlow over the past few weeks.

Police have said the crimes - almost exclusively on new model Ford Transits - could be being carried out using advanced software to override the locking mechanisms.

In all but one case, there was no damage and no sign of forced entry, as thieves emptied the commercial vehicles of tools and other expensive equipment in a series of separate incidents.

Inspector Scott Messenger, based at Marlow Police Station, says large public car parks are being targeted in High Wycombe.

And he urged tradesmen and drivers to empty their vans of any valuable contents if they are leaving it overnight.

He said last week: "The assumption is nationally that the people who are doing this have access to some software that is remotely opening the vehicle.

"It’s not an old fashioned crowbar to the door, this is a sophisticated type of crime where it is technology-driven.

"We have done specific operations around hotels, but predominantly it’s car parks.

"The advice is don’t leave tools in vehicles overnight, I appreciate it’s difficult for tradesmen, but it’s the same for car drivers, don’t leave valuables on show.

"The number of people who still leave phones and wallets on show is unbelievable."

Insp. Messenger said the incidents have slowed over the last two weeks but urged all drivers to remain vigilant in case the thieves return.