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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.
Between the dates of 2nd of April 2026 and 17th of April 2026 an operation was conducted in Morden targeting vehicle related crime. We aimed to have 2 vehicles out at all times, 1 marked and 1 unmarked, during the operation to cover the area of Merton with a the hotspot being identified between Mitcham and Morden.
Officers were encouraged to use road traffic powers to stop vehicles and confirm the identity of the drivers. A total of 4 arrests were made, 5 pursuit were started with successful recoveries of vehicles and 1 pursuit was joined on to as the vehicle passed through Morden and ended in Croydon with units assigned to the operation stinging the vehicle. All pursuits ended with either the vehicle being seized or intelligence reports recorded. Drivers were reported to be considered for offences and stop and search powers were also used during the operation.
During the operation there were 5 vehicle related crimes in Morden, compared to last years 12 in the same time period. In the mentioned dates in 2025 there were 10 Theft of MVs reported and in 2026 there were only 1, which is a massive success for us as our main goal is the reduction of crime.
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. | 
