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We’re issuing this alert to make residents aware of an increase in theft of vehicle number plates in the area. Stolen plates are often used to commit further offences, including fuel theft, burglary, and driving offences. Protecting your vehicle now can help prevent further crime and ensure you are not wrongly linked to incidents.
🔍 What Thieves Want Number Plates ForTo disguise vehicles used in crimeTo avoid paying for fuelTo evade speed cameras or ANPR detectionTo commit fraud or cloning offences
🔒 Crime Prevention Advice1. Use Anti‑Theft Number Plate ScrewsInstall security/anti‑tamper screws which make plates far harder to remove.These are inexpensive and available online or from most car accessory shops.2. Park SmartPark in well‑lit, populated areas.Whenever possible, park with the registration plate facing a wall or hedge to make removal more difficult.3. Consider Anti‑Theft Number Plates“Clutch‑head” security plates or plates designed to break when forcibly removed can deter thieves.4. Check Your Vehicle RegularlyMake checking your plates part of your routine.Report any tampering immediately.5. Report Suspicious BehaviourIf you see someone tampering with vehicles, call 999.For non-urgent reports or after‑the‑fact incidents, contact 101 or report online.
📞 If Your Number Plates Are StolenReport it straight away to the police via 101 or the force website.Inform your insurance company.Replace the plates promptly to avoid being incorrectly linked to offences. | 
