Theft of Motor Vehicle Alert

A car was stolen from Burnham Avenue on TUESDAY 1st JULY 2025 at around 7:32pm.

The vehicle was stolen from outside the owner’s home, it was stolen without keys, likely via a CAN Bus attack.

Stolen vehicle was a BLACK TOYOTA CHR registration number LS21PTO.

The vehicle was later recovered. 

Did you see or hear anything suspicious? You can let us know by ringing 101 and quoting crime reference 01/7683722/25.  You can also provide information anonymously to CrimeStoppers on Freephone 0800 555 111.

PLEASE DO NOT KEEP YOUR KEYS NEAR YOUR DOORS OR WINDOWS, KEYLESS CAR THEFT IS TAKING PLACE ALL OVER LONDON. CRIMINALS ARE USING INCREASINGLY SOPHISTICATED METHODS TO STEAL MOTOR VEHICLES.

Keyless theft (otherwise known as relay theft) is relatively simple; criminals can open your car in as little as 60 seconds. Criminals typically work in pairs to commit relay theft, with one holding a relay amplifier, and the other a relay transmitter. 
The key fob is tricked into thinking that the vehicle is nearby. The key fob sends out signals that allow entry into the vehicle. Thief #2's device receives the key fob's signals and then sends them to thief #1's device. Thief #1's device unlocks the vehicle and allows the thieves to start the ignition.

CAN bus attacks allow the thief to operate your vehicle in under three minutes without the key. Especially vulnerable on LEXUS, Toyota-C-HR, Rav4. The thieves try to connect to the wiring behind the headlight. Detailed article explaining it can be found on the internet.
 

PLEASE INVEST IN A SIGNAL BLOCKING POUCH IN ADDITION TO STEERING LOCKS.
Theft from motor vehicles continues, you can avoid becoming a victim by ensuring your vehicles are locked and secure, please also avoid leaving any items of value on display, criminals will gain entry just because the vehicle has been left unlocked.
Loose change, smart tablets, phone chargers, cigarettes, bags, jackets are just a few examples of items often stolen, these are items residents may not regard as "Valuables".
Please be aware of the items left in your vehicle!