A HUNT for a gang of brazen thieves has been launched after 17 cars were stolen from holidaymakers on a cruise.

The motors were lifted from a special “secure” parking facility in Southampton, overnight.

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The special parking site is operated by Southampton Cruise Parking Services and is touted as “secure” storage for vehicles.

Police said they were working closely with the firm in a bid to capture the thieves.

The holidaymakers vehicles were taken between 9 and 10 September, cops said.

Police were called early the next morning and when they arrived at the parking facility they discovered the motors had been swiped.

So far, only six of the 17 stolen motors have been recovered by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.

Officers are appealing for any witnesses to come forward to assist with their investigation into the mass motor theft.

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A spokesman for Hampshire Constabulary said: “We are appealing for witnesses following the theft of 17 vehicles from a cruise parking facility in Southampton.

“The incident occurred between the evening of September 9 and the early hours of September 10.

“Officers were called at approximately 7:40am on Wednesday September 10 to reports of a suspected break-in at Southampton Cruise Parking Services on First Avenue.

“Upon arrival, it was discovered that 17 cars had been stolen.

“The investigation team is working closely with the company operating the site, as well as local partners, to secure all available evidence.”

Detective Constable Edward Smith, the officer leading the investigation, said: “We don’t underestimate the significant impact this incident has had on the victims, who have returned from their holidays to discover their car stolen.

“We continue to keep those victims updated with the progress with our investigation, which our team is working incredibly hard on to ensure those responsible are arrested.

“We continue to progress several lines of inquiry including a full review of CCTV from the scene and surrounding areas.

“I am pleased to say that this work has already led to the recovery of six of the vehicles and those owners have been updated with the good news.”

Anyone with information, or who may have CCTV footage from the area, is urged to contact police quoting reference number 44250409694.

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or visiting their website.

The Sun has contacted Southampton Cruise Parking Services for comment.

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