Do you recognise this man?

Detectives would like to speak to him in connection with the theft of a number of cars including one in Medway.

Police have taken the unusual step of releasing two pictures of the man they want to question about the theft of a Ford Ka from a garage in Gillingham.

The man, who is believed to be responsible for several car thefts in the south, took a car from a garage on King Street for a test drive and never returned it.

He identified himself only as Ian, and made his first visit to the garage on Tuesday, February 19, when he inquired about a Ford Ka for his 23-year-old son.

Police say he agreed in principal to buy the car, but did not leave a deposit or sign any agreement.

He returned the following day just before 10am but the garage owner wasn't at the site, so he said he would return later the same day.

Detectives say he came back at 1.30pm and asked to take the car for a test drive and was allowed to go out alone.

After an hour or so the garage owner realised he was not coming back and called police.

It’s believed he could be responsible for a similar incident in Northfleet on Saturday, February 23 when a green BMW was stolen.

The car triggered and ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) cameras in Medway on Tuesday, February 26, and was found to have been sold on.

DC Lorraine Morgan, who is investigating the matters, said: “We would urge car salesmen to be extra vigilant when allowing prospective buyers to test drive cars.

“Ensure that they do not go out alone and, if possible, take a form of identification from them.

"This man appears to have committed other similar offences and is good at putting people at ease and seemingly trustworthy.

“If you recognise this man, or have any information that could help, please get in touch.”

The man is thought to be between 55 and 65, about 6ft 1in of slim build with short grey hair and a Scottish accent.

If you have any information, or you recognise this man, call DC Lorraine Morgan on 101, quoting reference XY/5803/13.

Alternatively, contact Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.