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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. Inspector Mark Connolly
“Across Havering, I take crime prevention seriously. Deterring crime before it happens is one of the most effective ways to keep our borough safe, and your vigilance and engagement play a vital role in that effort”.
Keeping your vehicle secure is essential, and I want to remind our community of the simple but effective steps you can take to help prevent crime. Across Havering, we have recently seen an increase in catalytic converter thefts, particularly over the last month. It is important that residents remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour immediately. If a crime is in progress, always call 999. For non emergencies, call 101, or if you have relevant CCTV or information, you can also contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team through Met Engage. www.metengage.co.uk . One highly effective method of improving vehicle security is the use of a Disklok steering lock. Disklok products are Secured by Design and are recognised as a strong deterrent against vehicle theft. You can find more information about their steering locks on their UK site here:
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Throughout 2026, Havering Safer Neighbourhood Teams will be hosting a series of crime prevention events, which will be advertised on www.metengage.co.uk I would encourage residents to attend these events, meet the team, and explore a range of crime prevention products which will include the Disklok steering lock along with other security options available on the market which reach the secure by design along standards.
 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. | 
