The public are being asked to be on the look out for cheap tools for sale after two vans were broken into in Medway.

Police are appealing for witnesses following the thefts in Hoo and Rochester.

The first occurred on Tuesday, January, 10, between 2pm and 2.30pm on Westergate Road, Rochester.

The 58-year-old victim parked his van on his friend's drive and a short while later heard his alarm sounding.

The man went out to check on the van and discovered a number of tools had been stolen.

A tool box, a silascope, a diagnostic reader and an engine management system reader had been taken.

A similar incident took place sometime between 5.15pm on Thursday, January 12, and 5am on Friday, January 13m on Kingshill Drive, Hoo.

A white Ford Transit van was reportedly broken into, with a large quantity of tools and machinery stolen, including a Bosch hammer drill and a Makita screw gun. A sat nav was also reported to have been taken.

DS Richard Taylor of Kent Police, said: "I would encourage anyone with any information about people behaving suspiciously in the area to get in touch with us so we can catch those involved.

"I would also ask residents to be on the look out for anyone offering cheap tools for sale - if it looks too good to be true, it probably is and these could be stolen goods."

DS Taylor urged people who own building equipment and power tools not to leave them in vehicles

He added: "‘It is also worth reiterating the importance of keeping vehicles secure even when they are parked outside the front of your home. Vehicles should always be locked and the door handles checked to ensure they are secure."

If you have any information which might help the investigation or have been offered second-hand power tools for sale, call 01634 792677 or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.