Number plate thefts rising

By Melissa Meehan
POLICE throughout the Yarra Valley have warned car owners to be vigilant after registering an increase in number plate thefts.
Healesville police Sergeant Tony Van Gorp said number plates were becoming a sought- after item among thieves and that it was important for drivers to safeguard themselves.
“Thieves are particularly targeting vehicles that are left for long periods of time by their owners,” Sgt Van Gorp said.
“There is a potential for people to be hit with fines and costs, where they don’t realise their plates are gone.”
“So, drivers must make sure unregistered plates are removed from cars and returned to their local Vic Roads office.”
Sgt Van Gorp said the increasing trend was linked to petrol drive offs, and attempts to conceal unregistered cars.
“If found with stolen number plates, individuals could face over $500 worth of fines. If there is a serious accident, then the consequences would be much more severe,” Sgt Van Gorp said.