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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. 🚨 Community Alert: Alloy Wheel Thefts 🚨
Over the past several days, we’ve seen a rise in offences where alloy wheels are being stolen from high-value vehicles in our area. Offences primarily seem to concern BMW X5 vehicles, and suspects have been able to defeat locking wheel nuts. Offences are occurring overnight. We’re actively investigating these incidents and working to identify those responsible.
✅ Crime Prevention Advice:
Park securely: Whenever possible, use a locked garage or well-lit area with CCTV coverage.
Wheel locks: Consider fitting locking wheel nuts to make removal more difficult.
Alarm settings: Ensure your vehicle alarm is active and set to trigger if the car is lifted.
Report suspicious activity: If you see anyone acting strangely around vehicles, call 999 in an emergency or 101 for non-emergencies.
🔍 Our reassurance:
Your safety and security are our priority. Patrols have been increased in affected areas. Please stay vigilant and help us by reporting anything unusual.
Thank you for your continued support in keeping our community safe.
 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. | 
