17th February 2025
Local authorities are raising awareness about the frequent occurrence of number plate thefts, which are often linked to further criminal activity, including theft and traffic offenses.
Stolen number plates are commonly used to facilitate crimes such as 'bilking'—the non-payment of fuel at petrol stations—or on 'cloned' vehicles. Cloning involves placing stolen plates on a vehicle of the same make, model, and color to disguise its true identity, making it more difficult for law enforcement to track criminal activity.
Police urge the public to report stolen number plates as soon as possible. Quick reporting enhances law enforcement's ability to detect, disrupt, and prevent further offenses.
To reduce the risk of number plate theft, police recommend the following preventive measures:
- Parking in well-lit areas
- Parking in view of CCTV cameras
- Reducing accessibility to at least one plate, such as parking close to a wall
- Utilizing secure parking options, such as garages or gated areas
- Using anti-theft plates or tamper-proof screws
Authorities continue to emphasize the importance of vigilance and community cooperation in tackling this issue.
