High petrol prices lead to more number-plate thefts

Police in Stockport have reported a spate of number-plate thefts. This is a result, they say, of the high petrol prices and the subsequent growth of drive-away thefts at filling stations.

Armer robbers and 'petrol bandits' are stealing number plates - to dodge automatic plate-recognition cameras. Police say the number of registration plate thefts has rocketed in line with soaring petrol prices.

In the last fortnight, 18 plates have been stolen overnight in the four Heatons area of Stockport alone. The plates - which can be unscrewed in seconds - are being attached to other vehicles, which are filled with petrol and then driven away from garage forecourts.

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