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You raised theft from vehicles as a concern, so here’s a quick local update. We would like to make you aware of a theft of a motor vehicle that occurred in BALLARDS LANE N3 Area.
During this time, an unknown suspect, has stolen a Catalytic Convertor.
Please take a few moments to review the following crime prevention advice to help protect your vehicle and belongings.
Items left on display can attract opportunistic theft, and offenders may target vehicles where property is clearly visible.
To reduce the risk of theft, please consider the following advice:
• Remove parcels from your vehicle as soon as possible
• Do not leave items on the parcel shelf or in view
• Place belongings in the boot before you reach your destination
• Lock your vehicle and ensure windows are fully closed
• Park in a well-lit area where possible
🔧🪛We would like to raise awareness about catalytic converter thefts and offer some practical advice on how you can help protect your vehicle.
Catalytic converters contain precious metals and can be stolen quickly, often in a matter of minutes. Certain vehicles, particularly hybrid cars and vans, are more at risk.🪛
🔧You can reduce the risk by taking the following steps:🪛
• Park your vehicle in a garage if you have one.
• If parking on a driveway, park close to a wall or another vehicle to restrict access underneath.
• When parking on the street, choose well-lit and busy areas.
• Consider fitting a catalytic converter cage, clamp, or marking kit.
• Install motion-sensor lights or CCTV covering your parking area if possible.
• Etch or mark your catalytic converter with your vehicle registration and use warning stickers as a deterrent.
🧰 2. Protect Your Tools
• Remove tools overnight wherever possible.**
o Keep them in a locked garage or inside your home when not in use.
o If that’s not practical, fit a lockable, secure toolbox that’s bolted to the vehicle floor.
o Marking makes tools harder to sell on and easier to identify if recovered.
• Keep a full inventory of your tools, including serial numbers, photos, and receipts.
📹 3. Make It Difficult for Thieves
• Install an alarm or immobiliser ,choose an accredited system.
• Fit an internal cage or bulkhead between the cab and the load area.
• Install a dashcam or CCTV overlooking your parking area visible cameras are a strong deterrent.
o Park close to walls, fences, or buildings to block access to side and rear doors.
o When on a driveway, reverse the van up against a solid object to restrict door access.
o In public, park under streetlights or near CCTV where possible
🚗 Vehicle Security Tips:
• Always lock your vehicle and close all windows, even if parked on your driveway.
• Remove valuables or place them out of sight, including bags, sat-navs, and charging cables.
• Park in well-lit areas or near CCTV whenever possible.
• Use steering wheel locks or other visible deterrents.
• Consider installing a dashcam or motion-sensor light near where you park.
• Report any suspicious activity immediately to police.
🛵 For Mopeds & Motorcycles:
• Always secure your moped with a strong chain and lock attached to an immovable object.
• Use a disc lock to prevent the wheels from moving.
• Park in well-lit and busy areas whenever possible.
• Consider fitting a tracker or alarm to help recover the vehicle if stolen.
• Keep a note of your vehicle identification number (VIN) and any unique markings.
We encourage anyone who sees suspicious behaviour around vehicles to report it immediately to the police via 101, or 999 in an emergency. You can also report information anonymously to Crimestoppers.
 Having personal items stolen from your vehicle is an upsetting experience, and we are determined to find and arrest those who break the law. 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 it’s 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. Remove all items from view by taking them with you or putting them in the boot out of sight. Thieves will look for any items on display. Things like clothes, documents or an old bag might not seem like valuables, but they could still tempt a thief. Ensure you remove all other clues there might be valuables linked to the car, such as phone chargers or sat-nav mounts. Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you do not 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. | 
