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I wanted to provide an update regarding theft from motor vehicles, which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. Over the weekend there was 3 suspects in Sparrow Street, Rainham trying vehicles door handles, police were called and caught,
This is important that all owners take responsibility to make sure the above and below information help we provide is followed as much as possible,
đ Vehicle Security Tips for Residents
1. Always lock your vehicle
Even if youâre stepping away âjust for a moment.â
Check that windows and sunroofs are fully closed.
2. Remove valuables from sight
Bags, wallets, laptops, phones, sat navs, tools â even small items like loose change can attract attention.
If you must leave items in the car, lock them in the boot before you reach your destination.
3. Use additional security where possible
Steering wheel locks
Gear stick/handbrake locks
Wheel clamps (especially for vans)
These visible deterrents discourage opportunistic thieves.
4. Park smart
Park in wellâlit, busy areas whenever possible.
At home, use driveways and ensure gates are closed.
If you have CCTV or a video doorbell, angle it so it covers your vehicle.
5. Consider antiâtheft technology
Install a tracker or alarm system if your vehicle doesnât already have one.
Use Faraday pouches for keyless entry fobs to block signalâboosting theft attempts.
6. Donât leave documents in the vehicle
Remove logbooks, insurance documents, or anything with personal details.
7. Report anything suspicious
Encourage residents to report:
People trying door handles
Individuals looking into cars
Unfamiliar vehicles cruising slowly at night
Report to 999 in an emergency or 101/online for nonâurgent concerns.
 Having personal items stolen from your vehicle is an upsetting experience, and we are determined to find and arrest those who break the law. We will keep you updated with what we are doing to tackle this in your area, but in the meantime, please follow the below advice to help protect your belongings. 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 itâs 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. Remove all items from view by taking them with you or putting them in the boot out of sight. Thieves will look for any items on display. Things like clothes, documents or an old bag might not seem like valuables, but they could still tempt a thief. Ensure you remove all other clues there might be valuables linked to the car, such as phone chargers or sat-nav mounts. Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you do not have access to one, try to park in a well âlit 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 atâŻcrimestoppers-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. | 
