THIS is just part of the massive haul of tools seized by police following a major wave of car and van break-ins in York.

Thieves targeted 25 to 30 vehicles in west York last weekend, stealing drills, saws, chargers and other workers’ tools. Other items, such as keys, speakers and a TV digibox were also stolen.

York Police today urged anyone who had had items stolen to come forward and see if their property was among the loot.

Inspector Mark Goulding said: “If there are people out there who have been subject to vehicle crime, especially relating to power tools and work equipment, come to York Police Station and look through this property.”

Police officers seized the property from a house somewhere in York on Thursday, after a high number of break-ins last weekend. By Monday, 25 to 30 had been reported for the weekend. Most were in the Acomb and Westfield areas.

Insp Goulding said three people had been arrested in connection with the thefts, and were assisting police with their inquiries.

In total, officers took 41 items they believe to be stolen from the house. Of those, eight have been definitely identified as stolen but police want to trace the owners of the other 33.

Insp Goulding also urged workers not to leave tools and equipment in their vans overnight.

He said: “Be very vigilant and do not go leaving stuff in the van overnight. A lot of people have posters saying there are no tools in the van – they need to do that.

“This is high-value stuff, very appealing for criminals and they can get rid of it easily.

“This is a good hit for us, as we do not usually recover this so quickly.”

Earlier this week, two people were arrested and a large amount of stolen property recovered following searches on three properties in Dringhouses.

The raids followed a surge in car crime in the area.

The searches were part of Operation Machine, launched to tackle car crime in the area.

Anyone who thinks their stolen property may be in the haul seized by York Police should visit the police station in Fulford Road.

Anyone with information about auto-crime in the area should email nptyork@northyorkshire.pnn.police.uk or phone 0845 6060247.