Met Police probe spate of parcel shelf thefts from cars in north London

"It didn't look like anything had been missing initially until we noticed the retractable parcel shelf had been removed. We had to wait weeks for the new window because it's such a common problem in north London that the demand for the windows was just exceeding their ability to supply them. We were told, if we replaced it, to take the parcel shelf out at night."

"Shelves can sell from anywhere between 10 to 150 online, depending on the car's make, model, age and condition. In one local policing operation, officers executed a search warrant and seized a number of parcel shelves believed to be stolen. One man was arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of controlled drugs and for handling stolen goods. Police have urged people in north London to remove parcel shelves from their cars overnight and to park in well-lit areas or garages where possible."

Multiple vehicles across north London, including Hampstead and Highgate, have had front or rear windows smashed so thieves can remove removable parcel shelves from boots. Owners have been left with costly window repairs and delays because demand for replacement windows exceeds supply. Stolen parcel shelves are appearing for sale online, with prices listed between 10 and 150 depending on make, model, age and condition. Police are reviewing CCTV, conducting targeted controls, executing search warrants and seizing suspected stolen shelves. One person was arrested on suspicion of drugs supply and handling stolen goods. Authorities advise removing parcel shelves overnight and parking in well-lit areas or garages.

Read at www.standard.co.uk