|
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. Vehicle Theft Prevention Advice – Hart Way, Rainham
On 11/07/2026 at approximately 03:28hrs, a vehicle was stolen from the victim's driveway in Hart Way, Rainham.
Vehicle Details:
Black Mercedes AMG GLE
VRM: FL68 FBA
CCTV footage was reviewed but only captured silhouettes of two unidentified suspects. One suspect appeared to be holding and waving some form of transmitter device. The victim remains in possession of both sets of vehicle keys, which were stored inside Faraday pouches within the property. At this time, it is unclear how access to or theft of the vehicle was achieved.
Crime Prevention Advice
While Faraday pouches are an excellent security measure for keyless vehicles, they are not foolproof and should be used alongside other security methods.
To further reduce the risk of vehicle theft:
Continue storing keys in a quality Faraday pouch and regularly test that it is blocking the signal effectively.
Keep vehicle keys well away from doors, windows and external walls of the property.
Consider storing keys in a metal container or signal-blocking box as an additional layer of protection.
Enable any manufacturer-installed security features, such as motion-sensor key fobs where available.
Use a steering wheel lock or other visible security device, as these can act as a significant deterrent.
Install a vehicle tracker to assist in locating the vehicle if stolen.
Park in a secure garage where possible or position vehicles to make removal more difficult.
Ensure the vehicle's software and security systems are kept up to date through the manufacturer.
Consider the installation of driveway CCTV, motion-activated lighting, or vehicle bollards/posts to prevent easy access.
Be vigilant for suspicious persons or vehicles in the area and report concerns to police promptly.
Layering physical security measures with electronic security greatly increases the effort required to steal a vehicle and can often deter offenders from targeting it altogether.
 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. | 
