A new petty crime trend might not be as innocuous as it seems.
There have been reports on social media from various users that their vehicles’ number plates have been stolen. Except for being a nuisance, the crime seems to be pointless, since number plates in and of themselves have no intrinsic value.
But it could safely be deduced that the plates are stolen in order to be used on vehicles involved in more serious crimes. These include crimes such as robbery, house break-ins, drug trafficking and petrol theft, and makes it harder for police to detect, investigate and solve crimes when the identity of a vehicle is hidden.
Here are some precautions you can take to lessen the chance of falling pry to this crime:
• Use one-way screws to affixed your number plates. This makes it harder for thieves to remove them.
• Park your vehicle in the safest location possible such as a locked garage, in a driveway or otherwise a well-lit area.
• Install sensor lights in your driveway to deter offenders. White light is best for clarity of vision.
• Trim trees, bushes and plants to ensure you can see your driveway from the house.
• Consider locking gates, putting up front fences and establishing garden beds to outline your property to would be offenders.
• In public areas, consider parking in secure car parks. These car parks have added safety measures such as security patrols and CCTV cameras.
• Check your vehicle regularly to ensure your number plates are secure.
• Join your local neighbourhood watch.
The Record is currently awaiting comment from the police.
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