Sussex Police are investigating a series of thefts from trades vehicles in the Arun district.
Thieves have been targeting vehicles particularly in the Barnham, Eastergate, Yapton, Walberton and Fontwell areas.
Between Friday, November 23, and Monday, November 26, nine of these thefts have been reported to police.
High-value tools have been taken, including a specialist winch stolen from the truck of a tree surgeon in Arundel Road, Fontwell, overnight between Thursday 22 and Friday 23 November, meaning the owner cannot work.
Police are advising that wherever possible tools and equipment are postcode marked and serial numbers are recorded to ensure identification in case tools are recovered in the future. They also advise that vehicles are locked, even if you are working close by.
Anyone who has information regarding the thefts, or anyone who notices anything suspicious is asked to contact Sussex Police on 101 or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.