Residents across North Brisbane, including Bracken Ridge, are being urged to take extra precautions after a concerning spike in registration plate thefts over the past day.
Local police have received half a dozen reports of number plates being stolen from vehicles within a 24-hour period, with incidents occurring in Bracken Ridge, Kedron, Eagle Farm, Nundah, Pinkenba and Geebung.
According to authorities, criminals steal registration plates to avoid identification when committing other offences, making it harder for police to track them down.
The opportunistic nature of these thefts means any vehicle could be targeted, but police say there are practical steps residents can take to protect themselves. Where possible, motorists should park off the street, behind gates or in locked garages to reduce the risk of theft.
To help the community fight back against this crime wave, the Gateway District Crime Prevention Unit has created special anti-theft screw packs available free of charge to North Brisbane residents. These unique one-way screws can only be removed using a specialised tool carried by police, making it significantly more difficult for thieves to steal plates.
Local residents can order their free anti-theft screw pack online through the Queensland Police MyPolice website.
For those who prefer hands-on assistance, police will be hosting a community fitting event this Sunday, 19 October, at Bunnings Virginia from 9am to 11am. Residents are invited to bring their vehicles along to have the anti-theft screws professionally installed by officers.
The initiative is part of a broader “turn the screws on crime” campaign aimed at reducing opportunistic theft across the region.
Published 14-October-2025
