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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. Dear Valley Ward Members,
#CommunityCrimeFrighing Officers from the Valley and Larkswood Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) were on patrol conducting intelligence-led activity within the ward, focusing on the identification and recovery of lost or stolen vehicles. This forms part of our ongoing commitment to tackling vehicle-related crime and maintaining the safety and confidence of our local community.
During the patrol, officers visited several known hotspot locations, including smaller and more isolated car park areas that have previously been associated with suspicious activity. Whilst carrying out checks in one such location, officers observed a Mitsubishi vehicle parked within a secluded cul-de-sac parking site, which raised initial suspicion.
A routine vehicle registration check (VRM) was promptly conducted, confirming that the vehicle had been reported stolen two days earlier from the N7 area. Officers remained at the scene to secure the vehicle and ensure there was no further risk or damage.
The registered keeper was contacted without delay and informed of the successful recovery. We are pleased to report that the vehicle was located in good condition, with no visible damage. The owner expressed their gratitude upon receiving the update and attended shortly afterwards, where they were safely reunited with their vehicle.
This positive outcome highlights the value of proactive patrols, intelligence-led policing, and vigilance when monitoring areas within our ward. It also reflects our continued dedication to protecting the community and returning stolen property to its rightful owners.
#ReducingVehicleCrime#KeepingCommunitiesSafe#SaferNeighbourhoodTeam#GoodNews
 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. | 
