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POLICE are urging residents to remain vigilant following vehicle registration plate thefts.
West Yorkshire Police have issued the warning after reports of plates being stolen from parked vehicles, with stolen plates often used in further crimes such as fuel theft, making off without payment, and other road traffic offences.
A spokesman for West Yorkshire Police said: "Police are reminding residents to remain vigilant following reports of vehicle registration plates being stolen from parked vehicles.
"Registration plate theft is often linked to other criminal offences, with stolen plates commonly fitted to other vehicles to avoid detection when committing crimes."
Officers are advising the public to report any suspicious persons seen examining vehicles or tampering with registration plates.
Instead, they are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the police.
West Yorkshire Police recommend fitting anti-theft screws to both front and rear plates, parking in well-lit areas or garages, and regularly checking that plates are securely attached to vehicles.