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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. Motor Vehicle Theft – Community Update and Crime Prevention Advice
We have identified a recent increase in motor vehicles being stolen in the King George and Sunray wards.
Enquiries suggest that suspects may be using advanced electronic key‑scanning devices to gain access to vehicles without causing damage. At present, Toyota vehicles appear to be particularly targeted.
These offences are predominantly occurring during the early hours of the morning, between 1:00am and 3:00am. In response, we will be increasing patrols in these areas during these times to deter offending and provide reassurance.
Residents in neighbouring wards, including Chessington North and Chessington South, are also advised to remain vigilant and consider taking the same preventative measures, as this type of offending can move between locations.
We advise all residents to:
Store vehicle keys away from the front door, ideally towards the back of the property
Avoid leaving keys near doors or windows where electronic signals can be intercepted
Consider using a signal‑blocking (Faraday) pouch for vehicle keys
Ensure vehicles are locked and, where possible, parked in a secure and well‑lit location
Report any suspicious behaviour in your area
If you witness suspicious activity, please report it to police. In an emergency, always call 999.
 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. | 
