Delivery drivers and postal workers urged to be vigilant as thefts continue

West Midlands Police said patrols had been stepped up in areas where the crimes have happened.

Victims and witnesses of robberies have also been urged to report the crime timely and with accurate information - and be honest when they have left their keys in the car.

Delivery drivers have been targeted after leaving their car running while dropping off parcels, the force said.

A spokesman said: "We understand the temptation to report this as a robbery -–often for insurance purposes - however this diverts the focus of our investigation.

"It is also a criminal offence to provide false information and sadly we’re having to deal with several matters as perverting the course of justice.

"Just yesterday, we received a report where a driver reported the robbery of his van which he told us involved weapons and violence.

"Further enquires and witness reports suggest that the keys were left in the ignition and the thief simply drove off."

In November there were 10 reports of delivery vehicle thefts in Walsall and Wolverhampton alone, while earlier this month video was released showing a driver clinging onto the bonnet of his van as a thief drove away in West Bromwich.

People have been warned not to leave their engines running or vehicles unlocked, never leave their keys in the vehicle and secure it each time.

Any suspicious behaviour can be reported via live chat at www.west-midlands.police.uk between 8am and midnight or by calling 101 anytime.

In an emergency always dial 999. To remain anonymous please contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.