Theft Of Motor Vehicle Update

Theft Of Motor Vehicle Update

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.

On the evening of 11th October 2026 Police responded to a call from a resident in Ealing Common where unknown suspects had just stolen their MERCEDES motor vehicle without keys. The vehicle had a tracking device which showed it being live tracked on the road towards SOUTHALL. Police tracked the vehicle and found it in SOUTHALL where 3 x males were inside the vehicle, and one male was found to be in possession of keys which started the vehicle. All 3 males were arrested on suspicion of Theft of Motor Vehicle and have since been charged. The vehicle was successfully recovered.

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. 

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