|
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. Community Safety Alert – Increase in Vehicle Thefts in Old Malden
Your Old Malden Safer Neighbourhood Team (SNT) is asking residents to remain vigilant following a recent increase in the theft of both motorcycles and motor vehicles across the ward.
We have identified that many of these offences are taking place late at night and during the early hours of the morning. Recent incidents indicate that Honda motorcycles and Toyota RAV4 vehicles are being particularly targeted.
Our officers are carrying out targeted patrols and proactive policing during these times. We are also asking residents to take a few simple steps to help protect their vehicles:
Always lock your vehicle and ensure all windows are fully closed.
Keep keys well away from doors and windows. If you have a keyless vehicle, store your keys in a Faraday pouch or signal-blocking box.
Consider using additional security such as steering wheel locks, motorcycle chains, disc locks, ground anchors, alarms or tracking devices.
Park in well-lit areas, secure garages or driveways whenever possible.
Never leave valuables or spare keys inside your vehicle.
If you own a Honda motorcycle or a Toyota RAV4, we encourage you to consider using additional security measures, as these vehicles have featured in recent theft reports.
If you see anyone acting suspiciously around parked vehicles, particularly during the late evening or early morning, please report it immediately. If a crime is in progress, call 999. For non-emergency reports or to share information, contact police on 101.
Your information, no matter how small it may seem, could help us identify offenders and prevent further offences.
Thank you for your continued support in helping to keep Old Malden safe.
Yours Sincerely,
Old Malden Safer Neighbourhood Team
 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. | 
