Local Priorities Theft Of Motor Vehicles Message

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.

Since the start of the year unfortunately we have seen a spike in theft of motor vehicles occurring overnight. We are working as a team to tackle these by using the ANPR cameras to see if we can find any pattern between the thefts that have taken place. We have also been delivering leaflets to local residents in the vicinity the thefts have occurred. I would like to emphasis to you that when you leave your car to ensue it is locked, you have the keys and that all valuables are taken out of the car and into your house with you.

In relation to this I am happy to inform you that in the morning of Thursday 8th January 2026 officers have arrested one male for theft of motor vehicle. This was due to the owner of the car tracking the vehicle and providing live updates to the police. Officers made there way to the vehicle and arrested the male inside for theft of motor vehicle and he was also further arrested for possession of point and blades. The vehicle was then recovered and returned to the owner.

We as your local policing team will continue to tackle this issue and provide updates where possible!

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. 

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