Operator Anthony’s Travel is the latest to be targeted by gangs that attempt to steal Mercedes-Benz Sprinter minibuses.
Managing Partner Richard Bamber reports that one of his Sprinters was damaged last week when it was parked overnight in Romford.
It was found with the ignition barrel was missing and wiring loose. It has been suggested that up to five Sprinter minicoaches had been stolen within the weeks before.
Mr Bamber believes that the thieves were unable to take his vehicle because of the presence of an Alcolock UK device, which with its separate wiring acted as an inhibitor.
“Often gangs bring their own ignition barrel and ECU. They remove the original ECU and barrel, connect their own and the engine can be started.”
routeone is aware of one other operator who has fitted secondary locks to the driver’s door to prevent access to the vehicle.
