Police tackle number plate thieves

A CAMPAIGN to “turn the screw” on car number plate thieves in Warrington has been launched by police and partners.
Police held a crime reduction event on Winwick Road, and in just four hours, 42 sets of anti-theft screws were fitted to vehicles. A further 10 sets of anti-theft screws were given away to drivers so they could attach them to their number plates themselves.
The event was organised by PCSO Matt Kirkham with the support of the Warrington Community Safety Partnership, and partners including the RAC.
He said: “The event was a great success with drivers queuing up throughout the time we were there to have the anti-theft screws fitted to their vehicle. The response from drivers was really positive and we are really pleased with the feedback.
“A number of motorists in the area have suffered at the hands of these thieves and we want to reduce the chances of other motorists falling foul of this type of crime.”
During the past few months there have been several reports of thefts of plates from vehicles. This type of crime is increasing and is being tackled by police.
Drivers are being urged to take steps to fight the crime by fitting the special anti-theft screws, available from many specialist shops, which cannot be removed with a normal screwdriver.
Police also advise buying one of the new-types of number plates that shatter if anyone tries to remove them, parking in a safe, well lit busy area and installing security lighting at home.