A TOP policeman is warning drivers they could be imprisoned if they steal number plates to try and dodge the congestion charge.

Around 300 number plates have been stolen in Bromley since February 2005 from cars parked on the streets or on garage forecourts.

Police believe most of these thefts are by motorists wishing to avoid the congestion charge by displaying a different number plate than their own.

They suspect other motorists are falsely reporting their number plates stolen to give themselves a ready made alibi if they are caught on camera.

Superintendent Matt Bell, who is in charge of community policing, is warning thieves they could be charged with theft, fraud and deception if caught.

He said: "These individuals do not seem to realise they are running the risk of a criminal record and a fine or imprisonment for a serious offence in an attempt to avoid paying."

Vehicle dealers are working with police to make the thefts more difficult by fitting security screws to number plates.

The number of tax discs and items stolen from inside vehicles is also on the increase.

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