Mercedes and BMWs were targeted in a spate of keyless car thefts.

Between Monday, June 3 and Saturday, June 8, four cars were stolen in the Kennington and Kingsnorth areas of Ashford.

The vehicles were taken from Millbank Road, Beaver Road, Hurst Road and Quantock Drive. The thefts are believed to have been carried out using a keyless entry system, also known as 'relay thefts'.

A device is used to fool the car into thinking the key is close by, and unlocks the vehicle, then starts the ignition.

Thieves only need to be within a few metres of a car key to capture the signal, even if it’s inside a home. This means that even if a car and home are secure, thieves can still unlock, start and steal a car.

While the incidents are investigated, officers are giving the following advice to owners of cars with keyless entry systems:

When at home, keep your car key and any spares well away from the car.

Put the keys in a screened or signal-blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag, and check if the bag or pouch is still working every few months.

Reprogramme your keys if you buy a second-hand car.

Turn off wireless signals on your fob when it's not being used.

An investigation by detectives from Kent Crime Squad is ongoing and anyone with information which may assist should call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting reference 46/92840/24.

You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or by using the online form.