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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. A car was stolen from The Grove between Thursday 17th JULY 2025 at around 3:20am.
The vehicle was stolen from outside the owner’s home, it was stolen without keys.
Stolen vehicle was a 2016 Silver Mercedes GLC Estate registration number LP16VBC.
Did you see or hear anything suspicious? You can let us know by ringing 101 and quoting crime reference 01/7747007/25. You can also provide information anonymously to CrimeStoppers on Freephone 0800 555 111.
PLEASE DO NOT KEEP YOUR KEYS NEAR YOUR DOORS OR WINDOWS, KEYLESS CAR THEFT IS TAKING PLACE ALL OVER LONDON. CRIMINALS ARE USING INCREASINGLY SOPHISTICATED METHODS TO STEAL MOTOR VEHICLES.
Keyless theft (otherwise known as relay theft) is relatively simple; criminals can open your car in as little as 60 seconds. Criminals typically work in pairs to commit relay theft, with one holding a relay amplifier, and the other a relay transmitter.
The key fob is tricked into thinking that the vehicle is nearby. The key fob sends out signals that allow entry into the vehicle. Thief #2's device receives the key fob's signals and then sends them to thief #1's device. Thief #1's device unlocks the vehicle and allows the thieves to start the ignition.
CAN bus attacks allow the thief to operate your vehicle in under three minutes without the key. Especially vulnerable on LEXUS, Toyota-C-HR, Rav4. The thieves try to connect to the wiring behind the headlight. Detailed article explaining it can be found on the internet.
PLEASE INVEST IN A SIGNAL BLOCKING POUCH IN ADDITION TO STEERING LOCKS.
Theft from motor vehicles continues, you can avoid becoming a victim by ensuring your vehicles are locked and secure, please also avoid leaving any items of value on display, criminals will gain entry just because the vehicle has been left unlocked.
Loose change, smart tablets, phone chargers, cigarettes, bags, jackets are just a few examples of items often stolen, these are items residents may not regard as "Valuables".
Please be aware of the items left in your vehicle!
*Image is not actual vehicle
 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. Get Involved Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on. Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 
Please click here to complete the survey
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