Shoppers are being urged not to leave newly bought presents where they can be seen after two men were arrested on suspicion of stealing from a car parked at Brighton Marina.
Sussex Police said that it was good advice at any time of year but especially during the run up to Christmas.
The force said: “Police are investigating a theft and an attempted theft from two vehicles in Brighton Marina multi-storey car park.
“Both incidents happened between 3.30am and 4.30am on Monday 23 November.
“A Ford Fiesta was broken into and a pair of sunglasses and a CD player were taken. An attempt was also made to break into an Audi TT, damaging a window.
“A 23-year-old man and an 18-year-old man, both from Brighton, have been arrested on suspicion of vehicle interference and theft from motor vehicle and bailed until Tuesday 15 December.”
Anyone who saw what happened or who may have other information is asked to phone Sussex Police on 101, email 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.