Local Priorities Theft Of Motor Vehicles Message

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.

On Sunday 23rd August 2026 at 23:12 hours, Police Interceptor units were travelling on CHEAM ROAD, SUTTON when their attention was drawn to a BLACK VW GOLF. Police stopped the vehicle under Section 163 Road Traffic Act. The vehicle contained two male occupnats, both males were searched, along with the vehicle. During the search of the vehicle, officers found an improvised device made from a portable charger, which had been modified lead to a two-prong instrument which was recognised as a device used to steal vehicles with.

Also found in the vehicle were multiple V5 documents, suspected to be fraudulent and to be used for fraudulently claiming ownership of stolen vehicles. On a nearby road generally in the direction that the suspect vehicle was travelling from, a stolen LAND ROVER was located. Both males were subsequently arrested for items found in vehicle used in fraud and Theft Of Motor Vehicles.

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. 

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