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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. MET Engage Appeal – Vehicle Theft
Vehicle Theft Appeal - Rainham
Police are appealing for information following the theft of a motor vehicle in Rainham.
Location: Queens Gardens, Rainham
Date: 4 September 2026
Time: Between 10:00hrs and 13:00hrs
A black Ford Focus, registration EP17 GNJ, was reported stolen after being parked in a permit bay at approximately 10:00hrs. The owner returned at around 13:00hrs to find the vehicle had been taken.
Officers are keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area during this time, or who may have CCTV, doorbell camera, or dashcam footage that could assist with the investigation.
Crime Reference: 01/8023009/26
If you have any information that could help identify those responsible, please contact police on 101 quoting the reference number above.
Crime Prevention Advice
Always ensure your vehicle is locked and secure, even when parked for short periods.
Consider using additional security measures such as steering wheel locks, trackers, or immobilisers.
Park in well-lit areas where possible.
Report any suspicious activity involving vehicles to police promptly.
Thank you for helping keep our communities safe.
 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. | 
