Local Priorities Theft Of Motor Vehicles Message - MetEngage Sidcup

I wanted to provide an update regarding the theft of motor vehicles,  which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Sidcup ward has experienced several incidents of note involving vehicle crime over the past week.
In the early hours of Wednesday 17th June, a BMW was stolen from Church Avenue, Sidcup. CCTV shows suspects approaching Church Avenue from Church Road at approximately 02:48hrs. The suspects initially approached the victim’s vehicle before walking further down the road. They later returned to the vehicle and, at approximately 03:16hrs, drove it away.
The victim discovered the vehicle missing later that morning and confirmed they were still in possession of both sets of keys. It’s likely this vehicle was stolen using a Relay device.
Today the neighbourhood policing team have been in the Church Road and Church Avenue making further enquiries.

We also had a report of an attempted theft from a motor vehicle reported in Knoll Road, Sidcup. Two suspects were seen approaching an unsecured vehicle parked on the driveway on Sunday 14th June. The windows to this vehicle were open and suspects managed to briefly get inside the vehicle before activating the vehicle alarm. Both suspects fled the scene and fortunately nothing was stolen.

Finally, a vehicle was criminally damaged on Friday 12th June. Victim discovered passenger window had been smashed.

We know that people can be concerned about the personal and financial impact of having their vehicle stolen, which is why we will pursue and arrest those who break the law. Please consider taking the following steps to keep your vehicle safe:  

• Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked.  

• Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door.  

• If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when its not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months.  

• Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you don’t have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space.  

• Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme.  

• Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others. 

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/458667/Local-Priorities-Theft-Of-Motor-Vehicles-Message 

5 card fraud tactics to be aware of

For a while, it appeared the tide had turned on card fraud. But criminals are gaining ground again, despite security checks designed to stop them in their tracks.

We’ve previously exposed banking security flaws that help scammers hijack digital wallets, spend money on cancelled cards and set sneaky subscription traps. We've rounded up five tactics you need to be aware of to protect yourself against card fraud. 

Source: Which? (18 Jun 2026) 

‘I'm a scams expert - these are my tips for reporting scams’

Every week, we're asked by our Scam Alert subscribers whether we can share our tips for reporting scams.

It's true that reporting scams is important in the fight against them. But knowing how and where to report these scams can be a minefield, and some reporting channels aren't very effective. Our scams expert, Tali Ramsey, shares her tried-and-tested methods for successfully reporting scams on social media, emails, texts, calls and more. 

Source: Which? (17 Jun 2026) 

Beware fake AI influencers and their 'artisan' wares

We've found a series of suspicious accounts on social media flogging dodgy products featuring influencers that we believe have been created using AI.

The videos all centred around made-up sob stories about an artisan creator not being able to sell their apparently handmade products, before asking if the public would be so kind as to support them. We reveal what to look out for so you don't get caught out. 

Source: Which? (18 Jun 2026)

Domestic Abuse During the world Cup - MetEngage Barnehurst

As we enter the World Cup period, many people will be coming together to watch and celebrate matches. Alongside this, there is evidence that incidents of domestic abuse increase by as much as 38% when the England men’s team loses.

It is important to emphasise that domestic abuse is never caused by sport or events themselves. Abuse is a choice made by perpetrators. However, factors such as heightened emotions, alcohol consumption and increased time spent at home can contribute to a rise in incidents during these periods. At Bexley, we take this issue seriously and remain committed to raising awareness and ensuring that anyone experiencing domestic abuse knows how and where to access support. To support this, we have developed a 2026 awareness campaign to coincide with the tournament. Posters are attached, and we would greatly appreciate your support in displaying and sharing these across your organisations and networks to help extend their reach. As a White Ribbon UK accredited borough, we continue to work with partners to challenge harmful behaviours and promote safer communities. Domestic abuse is everyone’s business. It is estimated that one in four women and one in six men will experience domestic abuse at some point in their lifetime. Support from specialist services remains vital. Solace continues to provide refuge, advocacy and practical support for women and children, helping them to move forward safely. We encourage you to raise awareness within your teams and communities and to signpost anyone who may need support to the services below: Bexley One Stop Shop Every Wednesday 12:30 pm – 3:00 pm Central Library Townley Road Bexleyheath DA6 7HJ Solace Advice Line 020 3198 4659 Thank you for your ongoing support in helping to raise awareness and keep our communities safe.

Attachments domestic abuse 2026 awareness posters A4 Posters final (4 types).pdf

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/458447/Domestic-Abuse-During-the-world-Cup

Our latest scam warnings

Our dedicated team of fraud experts is always on the lookout for scams targeting people across the UK.

This week, watch out for a Netflix scam email and Argos account hacking. Check out the full list, based on your reports to our Which? Scam Action Alerts Facebook community and scam sharer tool

Source: Which? (10 Jun 2026) 

Weight-loss patch scams

Demand for weight-loss products is soaring, but scammers are capitalising on this by creating online ads for fake or dubious products at temptingly low prices.

We've found two scam ads peddling dodgy weight-loss patches, using AI-generated images of people wearing hospital uniforms and stolen before-and-after pictures. Find out more about this scam and what you should do if you spot one.

Source: Which? (11 Jun 2026) 

Minecraft hacking warning

Parents and grandparents should clue themselves up on a nasty Minecraft scam which leads to malware infecting devices, with some reports of cyberbullying after fraudsters take control of webcams.

Find out how this scam works and how to remove malware from a Windows or Mac computer

Source: Which? (10 Jun 2026) 

Father’s Day Scams 2026: How to Spot Fake Deals and Protect Your Dad’s Day

With Father’s Day just round the corner on Sunday 21 June, many of us are frantically hunting for the perfect way to show our dads, grandads, or father figures some appreciation. Whether it’s a luxury hamper, tickets to a football match, or just a classic tech gadget, the rush to buy can sometimes cloud our judgment.

Unfortunately, scammers know exactly how to exploit our generosity. Cyber criminals love a calendar milestone, and Father’s Day is prime time for phishing emails, fake social media ads, and delivery scams.

To help you protect your wallet while treating your dad, here is a breakdown of the most common Father's Day scams doing the rounds in the UK right now, and exactly how to avoid them.

1. The "Too Good to Be True" Social Media Ads

You’re scrolling through Facebook or Instagram and see an advert for a top-tier branded watch, a luxury leather wallet, or a premium whiskey set at 70% off. The ad claims it’s a "Father’s Day Flash Sale" and includes a countdown timer to pressure you into buying.

• The Trap: Clicking the link takes you to a beautifully designed website that looks completely legitimate. In reality, it’s a spoofed site. Best case scenario? You receive a cheap, dangerous counterfeit product weeks later. Worst case? They pocket your cash, steal your card details, and never send a thing.

• How to Avoid It: Always buy directly from trusted high-street brands or verified online retailers. If you haven’t heard of the website before, check their reviews on independent sites like Trustpilot. Remember the golden rule: if a deal looks too good to be true, it almost certainly is.

2. The Fake "Missed Delivery" Text (Smishing)

Once you’ve ordered a gift, you will likely be waiting on a parcel delivery from Evri, DPD, Royal Mail, or Amazon. Scammers use automated bots to send out thousands of blanket text messages pretending to be these couriers.

• The Trap: You get a text saying your package cannot be delivered due to an "incomplete address" or an "outstanding shipping fee" of £1.50. Out of panic that Dad's gift won’t arrive on time, you click the link and enter your banking details to pay the tiny fee.

• How to Avoid It: Real delivery firms will never text you out of the blue asking for money or personal details via a random link. Track your parcels directly inside the official app of the retailer you bought from, or type the courier's official web address manually into your browser.

3. WhatsApp "Hi Mum/Hi Dad" Scams

This is an incredibly cruel psychological trick that targets parents directly, rather than the gift-buyers.

• The Trap: A father receives a WhatsApp message from an unknown number starting with something like: "Hi Dad, I've dropped my phone down the loo so I'm using a temporary number. I'm in a bit of a panic because I have an urgent bill to pay today and my banking app is locked on this phone. Can you transfer £800 to this account for me?"

• How to Avoid It: If you are a dad who receives a message like this, stop and challenge it. Never send money to a "new number" without calling your child on their original number first to verify it’s actually them. If they don't answer, ask the person on WhatsApp a specific question only your child would know the answer to.

Your 4-Step "Stop Fraud" Checklist

Before you click "Buy" or tap a link this month, run through this quick security checklist:

1.Check the URL securely:Takes 10 seconds.

Look closely at the web address. Scammers often use subtle typos like amazon-deals-uk.com or v0dafone.co.uk to trick you into thinking you are on a real brand's page.

2.Use a protected payment method:Before checkout.

Never pay via a direct bank transfer to an online shop you don't know. Always use a credit card or secure third-party services like PayPal, which offer buyer protection if things go wrong.

3.Inspect the website's small print:Before entering data.

Legitimate UK businesses are required by law to have clear terms and conditions, a privacy policy, and a physical returns address. If these pages are missing or full of spelling mistakes, close the tab.

4.Report anything suspicious:Post-browsing.

If you spot a scam, flag it to the authorities to prevent others from falling victim.

What to do if you've been targeted:

If you think you've accidentally given your details to a scammer, contact your bank immediately using the number on the back of your card.

You should also report any fraud or cyber crime to Report Fraud (the UK's national reporting centre) via their website or by calling 0300 123 2040. Suspicious texts can be forwarded to 7726 for free, and phishing emails can be sent to report@phishing.gov.uk.

Let's keep Father's Day about celebrating our dads—not funding cyber criminals. Happy shopping, and stay safe online!

Don’t Get Caught Offside: How to Dodge World Cup Ticket Scams

With the World Cup finally on the horizon, football fever is officially sweeping the nation. Every fan up and down the country is dreaming of being there in the stands, soaking up the atmosphere, and cheering on the lads.

But as the scramble for seats reaches a frantic peak, there’s a darker side to the beautiful game. Ruthless online fraudsters are working overtime, preying on our desperation for a ticket. If you aren’t careful, you could end up losing hundreds of pounds—and your chance of seeing history in the making.

Here is what you need to look out for, and how to make sure your World Cup dream doesn't turn into a proper nightmare.

The Red Flags: What to Look For

Scammers have become incredibly sophisticated, often setting up slick, professional-looking websites or social media profiles that look identical to official platforms. However, they almost always leave a few tell-tale clues:

• Bank Transfer Demands: If a seller insists you pay via direct bank transfer (or cryptocurrency), walk away immediately. Once that money leaves your account, it is gone forever.

• "Too Good to Be True" Prices: It’s a high-stakes World Cup match—tickets are like gold dust. If someone is offering prime category seats at face value or just a bit over, ask yourself why.

• Vague Seat Details: Legitimate sellers should be transparent about what they are offering. Under the UK's Consumer Rights Act 2015, online ticket resellers are legally required to provide specific details, such as the exact block, row, and seat number. If they refuse to give you these details, it's a massive red flag.

• High-Pressure Tactics: Statements like "I have five other people messaging me right now, buy it in the next 5 minutes or I'm selling to them" are classic psychological tricks designed to make you act before you think.

How to Protect Yourself

You don't need to miss out on the action, but you do need to play it safe. Follow these golden rules to keep your money secure:

1. Stick Strictly to Official Channels

The only 100% guaranteed way to get real World Cup tickets is directly through the official FIFA ticketing portal or authorised national football association packages.

2. Check for the STAR Logo

If you do decide to look at secondary ticket marketplaces or specialised travel operators, always check if they are a member of STAR (The Society of Ticket Agents and Retailers).

STAR is the leading self-regulatory body for the entertainment ticketing industry in the UK. When you buy from a STAR member, you are protected by a strict Code of Practice. This ensures you are buying from a verified source, that you will be told the face value of the ticket upfront, and that you have a clear route for refunds if things go wrong. Look for the STAR logo on the website, or verify the company directly on their official site (star.org.uk).

3. Use a Credit Card

Whenever you buy tickets online, always pay using a credit card if possible. Under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, your card provider protects purchases over £100. This means if the tickets turn out to be fake or never arrive, you can usually get your money back from your bank. Avoid debit cards, and never, ever use bank transfers or apps like Revolut or Wise to pay unverified individuals.

🚨 Already Been Scammed?

If you think you've been targeted by a ticket fraudster, don't stay silent. Report it immediately to Action Fraud (the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre) at actionfraud.police.uk or call them on 0300 123 2040. You should also contact your bank right away—the quicker you act, the higher the chance they can freeze the fraudulent transaction.

Let's look out for each other this tournament. Keep your wits about you, verify before you buy, and let’s make sure the only losses we suffer this World Cup are (hopefully not!) on the pitch.

Local Priorities Theft From Motor Vehicle Message - MetEngage West Heath

I wanted to provide an update regarding theft from motor vehicles, which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Dear resident,
Just to make you aware that there have been two reports of thefts of catalytic converters on the ward:

Brabourne Crescent – 5th June between 1945 and 2000 hours.
New Road – 4th June between 2015 and 2030 hours.

Enquiries are ongoing.

Having personal items stolen from your vehicle is an upsetting experience, and we are determined to find and arrest those who break the law. We will keep you updated with what we are doing to tackle this in your area, but in the meantime, please follow the below advice to help protect your belongings.  

• Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked.  

• Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door.  

• If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when it’s not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months.  

• Remove all items from view by taking them with you or putting them in the boot out of sight. Thieves will look for any items on display. Things like clothes, documents or an old bag might not seem like valuables, but they could still tempt a thief. Ensure you remove all other clues there might be valuables linked to the car, such as phone chargers or sat-nav mounts.  

• Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you do not have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space.  

• Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme.  

• Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others. 

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org.

 

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/454404/Local-Priorities-Theft-From-Motor-Vehicle-Message 

Local Priorities Burglary Message - MetEngage St Marys and St James

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding burglary, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

 

Burglary COLD BLOW CRESCENT

On Saturday 6th June at approximately 23:04hrs a neighbour reported hearing banging noises coming from next doors property. On looking out, saw a torch shinning inside. The rear patio door had been smashed, and two suspects were seen leaving the address. An untidy search of the property was carried out. At this stage, it is unclear whether any items have been stolen.

While we will continue to pursue burglars in the area, there are steps you can do to help keep your property safe. Make sure that you:  

• Double lock your door every time you leave the house  

• If you can, move garden furniture or bins away from windows so that thieves cannot use them to gain access.  

• Use laminated glass or security film on ground floor and accessible windows.  

• Use a sash stop if you have sash windows to prevent people opening them enough to climb through.  

• If your windows open outwards, use a key operated lock – check these are locked before leaving the house.  

• Make sure all valuables are out of sight. 

• Keep handbags and keys away from letterboxes or cat flaps.  

• In the evening shut the curtains and leave lights on.  

• Set your burglar alarm 

• Lock your  shed or garage 

• Mark, register or record your valuables. 

Please go to our website to find the latest advice and guidance on keeping yourself safe.

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Get Involved

Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey

 

We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/454317/Local-Priorities-Burglary-Message 

Car Vehicle Crime - MetEngage Barnehurst

This is to keep you all updated with what has been happening across the Ward. Unfortunately, we are reporting that there have been four vehicle crime incidents recently.

These incidents include:

Theft of an Audi

Theft of a work van

Theft of two catalytic converters

We are hoping this is not a sign of things to come across the Ward, however we would ask residents to remain vigilant and take extra precautions where possible.

 

We know the personal and financial impact of having a car or bike stolen, which is why we will pursue and arrest those who break the law. We will continue to provide you updates on how we are tackling this issue in your local area, but in the meantime, please consider taking the following steps to keep your vehicle safe:  

• Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked.  
• Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door.  
• If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when its not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months. 
• Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you don’t have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space. 
• Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme.  
• Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others. 

Full advice and guidance on this, and other crime types is available on the Metropolitan Police website.

We hope the information above is useful and addresses to some degree the concerns that you have raised. If you have experienced this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/453982/Car-Vehicle-Crime 

Local Priorities Shoplifting Message - MetEngage Sidcup

I wanted to provide you an update regarding Shoplifting, which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Some good news!

One male was arrested today by the team on Cray Road, Sidcup.

The male was wanted in connection with one assault and six theft offences from Boots, with stolen goods valued at approximately £1,800.

Following the arrest, officers also carried out a search of his home address as part of the ongoing investigations.

Shoplifting is a crime that can have a substantial negative impact on local businesses across London. If you notice anything suspicious or witness anyone shoplifting, please report it as soon as possible. These reports are invaluable in letting us build a picture of when and where shop lifters operate, meaning we can be in the right place at the right time to arrest those responsible. 

 

For more guidance, see our page on how to spot a shoplifter.

 

We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/453100/Local-Priorities-Shoplifting-Message

The Police Local Priorities Dangerous driving / speeding Message - MetEngage Crook Log

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding dangerous driving and speeding, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Dear Residents,

Crook Log SNT conducted a speed operation on HUDSON ROAD today which resulted in no stops

If there are any streets that you would like us to do a speed operation on, could you please let us know

Kind Regards,

Crook Log SNT

If someone is driving a motor vehicle, they should always be doing so in a safe and considerate manner. Even momentary lapses in judgement can have life changing or devastating consequences for those in the vehicle or innocent bystanders. 

 

Activities such as street racing, cruising or performing tricks can count as anti-social behaviour. If you are concerned about this in your area, visit our website for the latest guidance and how you can report this. You can also report dangerous driving in your area. 

 

We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/453306/Local-Priorities-Dangerous-driving--speeding-Message

Local Priorities Anti Social Behaviour News - MetEngage BLENDON & PENHILL

Please review the following update regarding Anti Social Behaviour which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.
 

Due to the recent Anti-Social Behaviour issues we have currently been facing the Safer Neighbourhoods Teams have patrolled Marlborough Park, The Oval and the surrounding areas everyday this week.
When we are on shift we will continue to patrol the areas on foot and in vehicles.

Antisocial behaviour can come in many forms and can require support from more organisations than just the police. There are 13 different types of antisocial behaviour that we may be able to help with, including abandoned vehicles, littering or drugs paraphernalia and street drinking. A full list of what we categorise as antisocial behaviour is available on our website.  

 If you have witnessed or experienced antisocial behaviour, you can report it online.

 If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

 Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 Get Involved

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

 Please consider getting involved by registering for these messages, this will enable you to contribute to the local priority survey.  We may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/452489/Local-Priorities-Anti-Social-Behaviour-News 

Local Priorities Anti Social Behaviour Message - MetEngage Falconwood and Welling

Please review the following update regarding Anti Social Behaviour which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.
 

Your local officers have been busy over the past week patrolling the Ward either visible on foot or covertly in plain clothes in an effort to stem anti-social behaviour. We have had reports of high powered electric bikes in Danson Park causing a nuisance so we have been concentrating efforts in and around the park. With the good weather the Parks become more attractive to these perpetrators so we will continue to patrol and deal with these individuals in a proportionate and robust manner so our residents can enjoy the parks.

Antisocial behaviour can come in many forms and can require support from more organisations than just the police. There are 13 different types of antisocial behaviour that we may be able to help with, including abandoned vehicles, littering or drugs paraphernalia and street drinking. A full list of what we categorise as antisocial behaviour is available on our website.  

 If you have witnessed or experienced antisocial behaviour, you can report it online.

 If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

 Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 Get Involved

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

 Please consider getting involved by registering for these messages, this will enable you to contribute to the local priority survey.  We may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/452493/Local-Priorities-Anti-Social-Behaviour-Message 

Test your knowledge with our scams quiz

Scammers steal hundreds of millions of pounds from innocent victims every year – and, as technology becomes more advanced, so do the methods fraudsters use.

Knowing what to look for and how to avoid scams is the best way to stay safe. Take our quiz to see how much you really know about the common scams doing the rounds.

Source: Which? 

Watch out for bogus holiday adverts

Which? has found fake adverts impersonating genuine businesses and conning holidaymakers into booking accommodation that doesn't exist.

The scammers have stolen photos to create tempting adverts and fake websites, and victims often don't realise their booking is bogus until they arrive at their destination. We reveal how this scam works and what you can do to avoid falling victim.

Source: Which? (04 Jun 2026) 

Scamwatch: recovering forgotten crypto

We recently spoke to a Which? member who was contacted out of the blue by a company that told them they'd built up Bitcoin wealth. This company offered to help them recover the lost funds.

Our fraud expert, Faye Lipson, explains why this type of message is almost certainly a scam, even if you've invested in bitcoin in the past

Source: Which? (01 Jun 2026) 

Bexley Crime stats ward summary May 2026

 

Source: Bexley Watch Viz

Drugs stop - MetEngage Northumberland Heath

Last week , your local officers were conducting targeted patrols around Londonderry Parade , Stelling Road due to recent raised concerns of youths congregating and smoking drugs. Officers managed to block in a group of youths and they were all searched , these were positive stops with warnings given to each individual about coming back to the block.

The youths are getting access to the block due to to the broken doors of the block , we have had this raised as a matter of urgency to Orbit who have assured us they will be fixed asap.

Your local officers will continue to conduct targeted patrols and stop searches within the area.

Source:  https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/450485/Drugs-stop

Community Safety and Inclusivity: The Slade Green Engagement Forum

We are pleased to invite all residents and frequent visitors of Slade Green to a vital local event focusing on Violence Against Women & Girls (VAWG). This forum is a unique opportunity to directly engage with the Bexley Community Safety Partnership (BCSP), local police, and council services, with a specific focus on Slade Green.

The goal of the engagement forum is twofold: to provide clear, essential information on ongoing work and support services in the area, and to create a safe space for you to voice your concerns and ask questions directly.

By attending, you can:

• Discuss concerns: Share any local issues or specific safety worries related to gender-based safety.

• Learn about progress: Get up-to-date information on the initiatives that the BCSP and local services are undertaking to keep Bexley and Slade Green safe.

• Obtain advice: Access support and advice from experts present at the forum.

• Ensure inclusivity: This is a family-friendly event, and children are welcome.

We have a shared responsibility for community safety. Your voice is essential in shaping the solutions that make Slade Green a safer place for everyone.

For more information and resources on VAWG in Bexley, please visit: www.bexley.gov.uk/vawg

Event Details

Date: Thursday, 11th June 2026 Time: 12:30pm – 2:30pm Location: Orchard House Orbit Hub, Slade Green DA8 3PY

Community Event: Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls in Slade Green

 

Water Safety at Five Arches Bridge, Foots Cray Meadows - MetEngage St Marys and St James

Police are reminding members of the public to take extra care around the water near Five Arches Bridge in Foots Cray Meadows, particularly as warmer weather approaches and more people visit the area.

While the location is a popular beauty spot, the river can present hidden dangers, including:

Sudden changes in water depth

Slippery banks and structures

Cold water shock, even during warm weather

We are urging everyone to:

Avoid entering the water, especially jumping from bridges or raised areas

Keep a close eye on children and ensure they are supervised at all times

Stay well back from the edge where surfaces may be unstable or slippery

In an emergency:

Call 999 immediately and ask for the appropriate emergency service

Your safety and the safety of others is our priority. Please enjoy the area responsibly and help us prevent avoidable accidents.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/449888/Water-Safety-at-Five-Arches-Bridge-Foots-Cray-Meadows 

Theft of Motor Vehicle on Martens Avenue - MetEngage Bexleyheath

Good morning Resident,

On Sunday 31st May at approximately 22:50hrs a silver Volvo XC90 was stolen on Martens Avenue. 

As you live within the location of this theft, I am reaching out to see if anyone had seen or heard anything at this time. If you have any CCTV, it would be greatly appreciated if you could review at the time stated above to see if anything has been captured. Please reply to this message if you have any information. 

Please be assured that officers will be patrolling the area in an attempt to detect and deter crime.

If you have a vehicle yourself, please be aware of this theft and follow the below link for information on how to protect yourself from motor vehicle crime

 Preventing car and vehicle theft | Crime Prevention | Metropolitan Police

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/450004/Theft-of-Motor-Vehicle-on-Martens-Avenue