POLICE in Ellesmere Port are warning the public to be vigilant following an increase in the amount of car number plate thefts in the town.

In the past three months officers have received reports of 60 thefts, averaging about 20 each month.

They have launched an appeal urging the public to be aware of the recent rise in these particular crimes.

Detective Sergeant Mike Ankers said thieves have been planning the offences when drivers are vulnerable.

“There is a significant increase in these type of offences,” he said.

“It is clear that the theft of number plates is facilitating the commission of further offences, such as drive-offs from petrol stations.

“This is a form of identity theft. Thieves are stealing the identity of your vehicle and then filling their vehicles up with fuel before driving off, without paying.”

Det Sgt Ankers added: “It’s important the police know about these offences so that they can prevent the subsequent offences.”

Officers are advising car owners to leave their cars in well-lit prominent locations to deter thieves from committing these offences.

Police are asking people to report any such offences to the police by calling 101.

And the first 150 people to visit Ellesmere Port Police Station will be given a set of anti-tamper screws, which prevent number plates being removed.