BRAZEN thieves are stealing number plates from cars in supermarket car parks.

Thames Valley Police are warning drivers in Bracknell and Wokingham to be vigilant after a number of number plates were stolen last week.

Thefts have happened in residential streets and supermarket car parks, and all types of cars are being targetted.

Detectives said: "Criminals have  a variety of reasons for stealing index plates of someone else's car, usually in order to fit to a vehicle that they will go on to use in crime, or to evade speeding, parking or congestion zone fines.

"Car dealers usually only fix index plates to cars with either double sided adhesive tape or standard screws, unfortunately these enable a thief to easily peal the plates off or to unscrew the plates with a standard screwdriver. There is unlikely to be much noise made and the theft takes just a couple of minutes, and the victim is left with the inconvenience of having to obtain replacements, and possibly to deal with claims for speeding, parking etc.

"If you have any information about these thefts or have CCTV or Dashcam footage you are asked to contact Thames Valley Police on 101.  Should you not want to speak to a police officer or want to remain anonymous to contact the independent charity “Crimestoppers” on 0800 555 111.
 

Tips to avoid these thefts:

 

  • Fix your plates with security screws, these are readily available for just a few pounds from car dealerships, car part stores such as Halfords or online. 
  • Fit a dashcam with motion activation that will record anyone walking up close to your car.
  • Reverse into parking bays, or up against a wall or fence
  • Avoid parking in unlit areas.