Police step up battle against vehicle number plate thieves

Officers from North Yorkshire Police have announced the new operation in a bid to prevent thieves taking the vehicles plates to commit a wide range of offences, including foiling speed cameras, avoiding parking fines and congestion charges, and failing to pay for fuel.

There has been a spate of thefts in the Selby district in particular, and motorists are now being urged to take extra security precautions to prevent number plates being taken. There have been a dozen reports of number plates being taken in the Selby district since October 1 last year - with eight offences in the last six months.

Police Community Support Officer Glen Cooper, a member of the Selby Safer Neighbourhood Team, said: “Some people may think that having their number plate stolen is no big deal, but in reality it could end up hitting you in the pocket.

“Stolen number plates are often used for storming past speed cameras, and of course, as the registered owner, the ticket will come to you.

“It’s the same with parking tickets and if someone fills up with fuel and drives off without paying it will be your door the police come knocking on. I urge people to take the prospect of number plate theft seriously, follow our advice, be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.”

Leaflets outlining anti-theft advice is now being offered to motorists and can be collected from police stations in across North Yorkshire. Police advise using anti-theft locks to prevent number plate thefts and a 10 per cent discount voucher is available with the leaflets to buy them at participating Halfords stores.

Officers have stressed that motorists should contact police as soon as possible if their number plates are stolen, and maintained the report will help if the licence plates are used in another crime.