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I wanted to provide an update regarding the theft of motor vehicles, which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. Overnight crime 27August-31 August 2025
2x Theft from Motor Vehicle
27th August @ Pershore Clouse
31st August @ Woodford Avenue
Dear Residents Barkingside ward have no reports of residential burglary for the period of 27th-31st August, however we have two reports of theft from motor vehicle at Pershore Close and Woodford Avenue where registration plate were stolen.
• Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked.
• Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door.
• If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when its not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months.
• Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you don’t have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space.
• Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme.
• Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others.
1. Park in a well-lit area - current trends suggest more offences take place at night. Always ensure your vehicle is locked when unattended. Always double check by testing the door handle - if you don’t, the thieves will.
2. Consider installing CCTV and a PIR sensor light to cover your driveway (if you have one). If you have access to a lockable garage, consider parking your vehicle there.
CATALYTIC CONVERTERS STEERING WHEELS NUMBER PLATES
3. Invest in a steering wheel lock. These range from £30-£100 and can be purchased online, at selected hardware stores or at high street motoring stores. Check your vehicle is compatible before purchase.
If possible, look for a manufacturer that has been accredited by “Secured by Design” as these products are regularly tested and approved by police services/forces nationwide.
Consider Number plate Anti-screw
Steering wheel locks are a good deterrent and can be purchased for as little as £30.
Why do thieves want to steal number plates?
Thieves steal number plates to facilitate crimes - they’ll place them on different vehicles and steal fuel or will mask the true identity of their vehicle (it may be stolen, or it may be used to commit other offences) - making it harder for the police to trace them.
I have a personalised plate, or my car is surely too old to be useful to them - could I still be affected?
Absolutely. Thieves don’t care about the age or distinctiveness of a number plate. If it is easily accessible, they will take it.
Many victims of number plate theft have used sticky adhesive pads to put the plate onto their vehicle, making it easier for thieves.
Having your number plates secured by screws does not mean you are any less at risk - as these can be easily removed with a screwdriver.
The best way to secure your number plates is using one-way security screws. The screws can easily be fitted to any pre-existing holes in the number plate and vehicle. If you’re unsure, these can be fitted at a Local garage for a small fee.
Kindest Regards
PCSO7005EA
Martin K
 We know that people can be concerned about the personal and financial impact of having their vehicle stolen, which is why we will pursue and arrest those who break the law. Please consider taking the following steps to keep your vehicle safe: Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked. Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door. If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when its not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months. Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you don’t have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space. Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme. Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others.
If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years, and we want to make sure you have had the chance to have your say. The consultation paper is available online, as well as a survey to let us know what you think. This closes on the 15 September. |
