Have you ever had your registration plate stolen?

Since the beginning of March, 2022, there has been an increase in registration plate thefts on the Sunshine Coast.

Eighteen registration plate thefts were reported to police in a nine-day period.

Police are urging vehicle owners to secure their number plates using registration lock anti-theft screws.

Secondly, if you park on the street or driveway at night and have a lockable garage, it is encouraged to secure your vehicle in the garage.

Number plate theft costs time and money to Queenslanders and has a larger impact on the community with links between number plate thefts and other crimes. Some of these crimes include fuel drive-offs, property offences and toll evasions just to name a few.

When was the last time you looked at the registration plates on your vehicle?

It is common for an owner of a vehicle not to be aware their registration plate is missing.

Motorists should check their tyres before travelling so make it a habit to check that your registration plates are intact.

The anti-theft screws can be purchased at selected hardware stores and automotive retailers.

The screws are very easy to put on with a flathead screwdriver. When you try to turn the screw back the other way, the screwdriver will slip off.

The anti-theft screws are not easy to remove. Once fitted to the vehicle a special removal tool is required to remove the screws from the number plates.

To remove the screws on the number plates car owners can attend Police Stations, Department of Transport and Main Roads.

Turn the screws on crime and get some one way screws to secure your number plates!

This column is compiled by the Sunshine Coast District Crime Prevention Unit.

If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.

Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.