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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. Message from Superintendent Priya Shome
Three Stolen Vehicles Recovered in One Day Across Bromley 🚔
Whilst out on patrol across Bromley yesterday with Chief Inspector David Cooper, officers recovered three stolen vehicles, disrupted ongoing criminality and secured a number of positive outcomes for victims.
A stolen Ford Transit displaying cloned registration plates was identified and recovered after officers spotted a number of indicators that suggested it may be stolen. Enquiries confirmed the vehicle had been stolen just three days earlier.
The vehicle is believed to have been used in a series of offences across Bromley, Bexley and Kent, and is currently suspected of being linked to approximately 12 offences in Bromley alone. Officers also recovered a substantial quantity of high-value tools and equipment believed to be stolen property. Following forensic examination, efforts will be made to reunite this property with its rightful owners.
The van is also linked to an incident the previous day where a large quantity of tools was stolen and two people were assaulted after challenging the suspects. Bromley officers are now working closely with investigators and colleagues from Kent Police to identify those responsible.
A second stolen Ford Transit, stolen without keys the previous day, was also recovered. The victim was extremely grateful for the swift recovery, explaining that the vehicle is essential to their livelihood.
With support from colleagues based at St Mary Cray, officers also recovered a stolen motorcycle. Following a prompt response, three suspects were located and detained nearby. The victim, who was visiting from overseas, expressed their gratitude for the quick action and positive outcome.
These recoveries have prevented further offending, created significant investigative opportunities and safeguarded victims across Bromley and neighbouring areas.
This was a fantastic example of proactive neighbourhood policing, visible patrols and teamwork delivering immediate results for the public. It removed vehicles linked to serious criminality, facilitated the recovery of suspected stolen property, secured the detention of suspects and demonstrated our ongoing commitment to tackling vehicle crime, protecting victims and pursuing offenders.
 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. | 
