Cases of Number Plate Theft on the Rise

Did you know that number plate theft in Wavell Heights has been on the rise in recent weeks?

In four separate incidents recently, registration plates were pinched from vehicles parked in Allworth Street, Northgate; Sandgate Road, Nundah; Curtin Avenue East, Eagle Farm; and Bryden Street, Windsor.

In one case, the nicked plates were later found attached to an allegedly stolen vehicle in East Brisbane.



Police are urging residents to be vigilant and to take steps to prevent their number plates from being pinched.

Here’s some tips to help you protect your vehicle:

  • Fit anti-theft screws to your number plates. These screws are harder to remove, making it less likely that your plates will be pinched.
  • Park in well-lit areas. This will make it harder for thieves to operate under the cover of darkness.
  • Don’t leave your vehicle unattended for long periods of time. If you have to leave your car, take your number plates with you.
  • Report any suspicious activity to police. If you see someone tampering with a vehicle’s number plates, or if you see a vehicle with obviously pinched plates, report it to police immediately.

By following these tips, you can help protect your vehicle from number plate theft.



Don’t let your number plates become a liability. Take steps today to protect your vehicle from theft.

Order your free set of anti-theft screws by clicking on this link.

Published 28-June-2023

Police Urge Wavell Heights Community To Secure Cars, Homes Due To Thefts

Wavell Heights residents are being reminded by authorities about the importance of securing their homes and vehicles following cases of recent theft from vehicles and burglary in the suburb.


Read: North Brisbane Police Unit Receives First Fuel Cell Propelled Vehicle in Southern Hemisphere


Between 1 July and 31 August 2022, there were 33 property-related offences reported in Wavell Heights, which included 11 burglaries and 10 steal-from-vehicle offences.

A review of these burglary offences revealed the majority occurred during the overnight period from 4:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m., with six out of the 11 offences involving access via unlocked or unsecured doors. Three offences involved the offender forcing, jemmying or smashing their way in.

According to North Brisbane District Crime Prevention Coordinator Sergeant Jodie Murray,  main items targeted during the burglary offences were wallets and vehicle keys. 

wavell heights
Photo credit: Bich Tran/Pexels

“In all cases where vehicle keys were stolen (four), vehicles were also stolen from the address. In all cases where jewellery was stolen (two), the entry was forced,” Sgt Murray stated.

Authorities have reminded residents to keep their keys safe, such as keeping them out of sight, and more importantly, keeping their homes safe, by keeping their doors and windows locked.

“No matter who’s home or what time of the day it is, it’s important to continue these security measures when it comes to your keys,” Sgt Murray added.

“Thieves stealing cars aren’t always those with hot-wiring skills. Opportunistic thieves will take any opportunity to steal cars, including walking into your home and grabbing them right off your bench.”


Read: Amid the Summer Heat, Wavell Heights Residents Encouraged to Review Home Security


Police have greatly increased their marked and covert patrols at the peak times, and have called in specialist units such as tactical crime squad, specialist property crime squads, and police dog squads.

Residents can report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers, or by calling 1800 333 000 and reporting online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.