Witness appeal following theft of two Toyota RAV4 motor vehicles - Stoke Goldington

Hello Resident,

We are appealing for witnesses following a report of theft of two Toyota Rav4 motor vehicles in Stoke Goldington.

The first incident occurred on Sunday 8th March 2026 at around 05:15 am in Orchard Way, Stoke Goldington.  If you have any information around this incident, please contact the Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101 quoting reference 43260115756.

Description of suspect: White male, approx. 20 to 30 years old, average height between 5'6" and 5'10", had a hoody up with a face covering on lower part either a beard or facemask wearing light jeans, dark trainers, light hooded coat.

The second incident occurred overnight between Tuesday 10th March 2026 17:30 pm to Wednesday 11th March 2026 08:00 am on the High Street in Stoke Goldington.  If you have any information around this incident, please contact the Thames Valley Police enquiry centre on 101 quoting reference  43260119661 or online.

We would like to speak to anyone who has information, CCTV or dash cam footage within the area at this time to please come forward.  

“If you do not want to talk to the police, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111.” 

What is keyless theft of cars?

The process criminals use to steal a car without the keys – also known as relay theft – is relatively simple. First, they buy a relay amplifier and a relay transmitter; these electronic gizmos can be purchased from the darker corners of the internet. 

Next, they identify a house with a nice car parked outside and, by using these gadgets, can detect whether the car features keyless entry and go. 

One criminal stands by the car with his transmitter, while a second waves his amplifier around the perimeter of the house. If the car key is close enough the amplifier will detect its signal, amplify it and send it to the accomplice’s transmitter. 

This transmitter then effectively becomes the key, and tricks the car into thinking the real key is nearby, whereupon the thieves are able to open the car, get in and drive away. 

The whole process can take as little as 60 seconds and can be completed in near silence. 

How to avoid keyless theft – top tips 

Keyless theft sounds almost like the perfect crime – but that doesn’t mean there aren’t steps you can take to stop it from happening to you. 

Don’t forget the basics 

Car Owners shouldn’t forget to take standard security measures, ensuring their car is properly locked and keeping keys far away from doors and windows. This will minimise the chances a thief will be able to find and amplify the key’s signal and is general good practice. 

Can you switch off your key? 

Check your manual or speak to your dealer to find out if your key has this function. 

Physical barriers 

You could also purchase an aftermarket security device such as a steering wheel lock, a driveway parking post, or even a wheel clamp. Even if the thieves are able to access and start your car, these should prevent them from driving away. Many any criminals will consider bypassing vehicles with these devices as they are too much hassle. 

Signal blocking pouches 

Consider purchasing a Faraday pouch to keep your car key in. These pouches contain signal-blocking materials that stop your key transmitting its code, preventing crooks from being able to detect and amplify the signal. 

Storing your key in a Faraday bag, lined with layers of metallic material, is the way to foil them and keep your car safe. The key needs to be placed inside the bag from the moment you blip the locks. 

If the bag is large enough, it can also be used for a mobile phone, bank and credit cards to prevent hacking and fraud.

Tracking devices 

Vehicles fitted with this tech have a 96 per cent recovery rate when stolen. The odds reduce to 50 per cent for those without. Meaning a car tracking device is an excellent way to help ensure should the worst happen, your car is recovered.