A sophisticated crime spree, possibly involving drones, has seen around 70 Volkswagen car badges and radar sensors stolen across south-east London in just four days.
Victims reported that the distinctive ‘VW’ front badges, which incorporate radar sensors, could be removed in under five seconds.
The thefts occurred between 15 and 19 July, affecting vehicles on 29 streets in areas including Catford, Forest Hill, Ladywell, Honor Oak, East Dulwich, and Lewisham, according to The Times.
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed they are investigating about 70 reported incidents.
One victim, Giorgina Tomlin from Nunhead, told The Times that her newly bought Volkswagen T-Roc was targeted on 18 July.
She added that a neighbour had spotted a drone in their garden the day before.
Ms Tomlin said: “It was highly organised, they knew exactly where every car was, so they’d obviously scoped it out previously.”
Another victim who spoke to The Times, Graham Dunn, had his Volkswagen Tiguan targeted on 18 July.
He sent CCTV footage of the theft to the police.
He said: “It was two guys on Lime bikes, it took sub-five seconds, and they’ve done nearly £2,000 of damage in that time.
“They harvested this area.”
Pc Olly Rutherford, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are aware of a number of incidents in south-east London over recent weeks in which car badges including the vehicle’s radar sensors have been stolen.
“At this stage, around 70 thefts are believed to have taken place.
“Inquiries remain under way and we would ask anyone else who believes they have been victim of this type of crime to report the details to us.
“Similarly, anyone who has information which has not yet been shared with police is asked to get in touch with us as soon as possible.”
Volkswagen has been contacted for comment.