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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. Vehicle Theft – Crime Prevention Advice
On 22/07/2026, an undriveable vehicle was stolen from outside the owner's home on New Zealand Road, Rainham.
Vehicle Details:
Make/Model: BMW 3 Series
Colour: Silver/Grey
VRM: MF69 VTL
This incident highlights that even vehicles which are not roadworthy or currently in use can still be targeted by thieves. Offenders may steal vehicles for parts, scrap value, or to facilitate other criminal activity.
Crime Prevention Advice
🚗 Remove Valuables
Do not leave any personal belongings, documents, keys, or vehicle-related items inside the vehicle.
🔒 Secure the Vehicle
Ensure the vehicle is locked at all times, even if it is undriveable.
Close all windows and sunroofs.
🛡️ Use Additional Security
Fit a steering wheel lock or wheel clamp where possible.
Consider installing a tracker, immobiliser, or alarm system.
Use security posts or bollards on driveways if appropriate.
🔑 Protect Vehicle Keys
Keep keys away from doors and windows.
Store keyless entry fobs in a Faraday pouch or signal-blocking box.
💡 Improve Home Security
Install motion-activated lighting and CCTV covering driveways and parking areas.
Ensure good visibility around the vehicle and remove opportunities for offenders to work unnoticed.
👀 Remain Vigilant
Report any suspicious persons or vehicles seen acting suspiciously in residential areas.
Encourage neighbours to be vigilant and report any concerns promptly.
If You Have Information
Anyone with information relating to the theft of this vehicle, or who may have captured relevant CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage, is encouraged to report it to the police quoting the relevant crime reference number.
Prevent • Secure • Report 🚔
Simple security measures can make a vehicle a less attractive target and significantly reduce the risk of theft.
 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. | 
