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.

Whilst on foot patrol across the ward over the last three days I have found two cars left unlocked in separate roads with all the windows open. After carrying out checks and locating the owners of the vehicles the owners stated that the batteries in their key fobs had run down causing this. Please be mindful of this and replace batteries ASAP if this occurs. This can also happen if your vehicles battery runs low and needs replacing.
I also found a van with both rear doors fully open exposing tradesman tools and equipment. I located the owner who was thankful for letting him know. Please double check your vehicles are locked and secure with all valuables taken out.
Reported theft of and theft from motor vehicle has remained considerably low across the ward over the last couple of months. There has been a few theft of motor vehicles that have happened just off of our ward in the CROYDON area.

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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