A SUSPECTED car thief was seen near Sedgley Park using a device to 'trick' cars into opening.

Shortly before 4.30am on Wednesday, March 7, 2018 a would-be-thief was seen walking around a house near Sedgley Park Rugby Club in Whitefield.

He was holding a device near to windows and doors believed to be used for relaying a signal from a key for a high-value BMW parked on the drive.

The device can be used to ‘trick’ cars into believing the keys are in range so thieves can access the vehicle and drive it off.

Officers investigating the incident have released a CCTV image and anyone who recognises the man in the picture should contact police.

PC Graham Whittaker, from GMP’s Bury borough, said: “Thankfully on this occasion the thief left empty handed but I think this incident highlights the advanced technology criminals are now using to try and steal high-value cars.

“I would like to remind residents to keep all car keys away from windows and doors where people can easily see them or have access to them. There are also products available online which are believed to shield the signal from the keys.

“If anyone recognises the man pictured I would urge you to call police immediately.

“Maybe you saw a man acting suspiciously in the area that same morning – even the smallest detail could help us find the man behind this.”

Anyone with any information about the incident can contact police on 101 quoting incident number 573 of March 7, 2018. Alternatively, information can be passed on anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.