THIEVES stole a van in Redhill after luring its driver out of his vehicle last night (Monday).
Surrey Police is appealing for information following the distraction theft.
Officers were called to St Annes Way at around 8.30pm after a silver car with four occupants stopped suddenly in front of the white Vauxhall panel van, forcing the driver to pull over.
He left his vehicle unattended while he spoke with the driver of the car. As he was doing so, one of the other occupants of the car drove off in his van, which contained spare car parts.
Investigating officer Sergeant Jo Horner from East Surrey CID said: "At this stage in the investigation it is not known whether this is a planned or opportunistic offence.
"Although we have spoken with a number of witnesses I would appeal to anyone who saw anything suspicious, especially in the Princess Way, Station Road and St Annes Drive areas, which may connect to the offence, to contact officers with information."
Reigate and Banstead Neighbourhood Sergeant Simon Ward, said: "Incidents of this nature are rare in Surrey and local officers will be carrying out high visibility patrols in the area in a bid to gather information on who is responsible for this offence and reassure the public."
The victim was not hurt or threatened during the incident.
Anyone with information on this incident is urged to contact Surrey Police on 101 quoting reference RB/13/3081 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
