Cherished Number Plates News

Arrests over number plate thefts

21 October 2008

Following a two-week long crackdown on number plate thieves, police have made five arrests relating to the ever growing crime trend in Tandridge, Surrey.

Police stepped up patrols after an increase in thefts in the Whyteleafe area.

It was thought stolen plates were being used on vehicles to make off without paying for petrol at garages across Tandridge and Reigate.

Four were arrested for being suspected of taking number plates for use in crime and another person was arrested for being suspected of stealing petrol form numerous stations by using false plates.

Police said four men were bailed while a 17-year-old held over suspected false plates was released without charge.

Pc Martin Bassom advised drivers in the area to fit safe plates with clutch-head screws which cannot be removed with standard tools. He went on to advise people to fit plates which shatter upon removal.