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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. Smart Daily Routines to prevent Theft of and theft from motor vehicles
Even the most fortified van can be bypassed if standard safety routines are forgotten.
• The Golden Rule: Empty your van of critical or high-value power tools overnight whenever possible. Display a clear "No Tools Left Inside Overnight" sticker to deter opportunists.
• Park Strategically: Park in well-lit, busy areas covered by CCTV. When at home, park your vehicle with the rear or sliding doors tightly backed up against a solid wall, garage door, or fence to prevent access.
• Lock It Every Time: Never leave your vehicle unlocked or running while unloading, popping into a shop, or even working just a few metres away.
• Clear the Dashboard: Hide phone chargers, loose change, and anything that hints at valuables inside the vehicle to keep the cabin looking completely
Forensic DNA Asset Marking: Use a liquid microdot such as SelectaDNA —to brush invisible codes onto your gear. This glows under UV light, linking recovered tools straight back to you and aiding in criminal convictions.
Vehicle & Site Upgrades
Vans account for over half of all reported tool thefts. Relying solely on a vehicle's standard factory locks leaves it highly vulnerable to common tactics like the "peel and steal" attack. [1]
• Install Heavy-Duty Locks: Fit aftermarket SlamLocks (which lock automatically when a door closes) or Deadlocks (which add an extra internal bolt).
• Apply Anti-Peel Kits: These steel brackets reinforce the top corners of van doors to stop thieves from physically bending the metal downward.
• Secure the Interior: Use an anchored, lockable steel tool vault or slider drawer system inside the vehicle to add a secondary layer of security if a break-in occurs.
• Protect the Windows: Install window grilles, blanks, or internal bulkheads to block thieves from seeing your cargo space or smashing through the glass
Many thanks
PC Quinlan 2325 SN
 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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