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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. Over the last three weeks of January, Safer Neighbourhood Officers, the Havering Joint Task Force, Romford Town Centre Teams, Street Duties officers, the Roads & Transport Policing Command, and Havering Council Enforcement have worked together on a targeted operation to tackle motor vehicle crime across the borough.
The operation has been a major success:
• 105 vehicles stopped
• 13 arrests made
• 23 people reported for driving offences
• 15 stolen vehicles recovered
• 12 vehicles seized for no insurance
• 2 e scooters seized, and advice given to another rider using an e scooter illegally
Using targeted patrols and ANPR technology, officers made arrests for weapon offences, drink/drug driving, possession with intent to supply, and outstanding suspects – including one wanted for residential burglary. Two males were also found carrying offensive weapons; one has been charged and one bailed pending investigation. Another prolific motor vehicle offender was arrested and charged, with a Criminal Behaviour Order being sought at court.
This work was further supported by local Safer Neighbourhood Ward Panels, who help shape local policing priorities and ensure officers focus on the issues that matter most to the community.
Insp Mark Connolly – Havering Safer Neighbourhood Teams South / HJTF / Acquisitive crime M/V and Burglary Thematic lead said
“This operation shows the continued commitment of Havering officers to listen to residents and tackle crime head on. Some fantastic results by everyone involved by some great teams, leaders and partners”.
Councillor Ray Morgon, Leader of Havering Council, said:
“We know from listening to our residents that the theft of a vehicle has a real effect on their lives.
“This operation has not only seen stolen vehicles found and returned to their rightful owners, but arrests made which means action is being taken against those offenders. We will continue to work with the police and our partners to tackle this crime.”
Jan Sargeant – Chair Person for Gooshays Safer Neighbourhood Ward Panel said
“As Chair of the Gooshays Safer Neighbourhood Ward Panel, I strongly encourage residents to join their local safer neighbourhood groups.
Made up of residents, councillors and community members, these groups work directly with the local police to raise community concerns and ensure our voices help to shape priorities that keep our neighbourhood safe”.
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Together, we keep Havering 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. | 
