Goomeri police to fit free anti-theft number plate screws on Tuesday

Police will help Goomeri motorists fit free anti-theft screws to their number plates at a community event at Dickson Park, near the Emporium on Moore Street, on Tuesday 17 November from 1pm to 4pm.

The screws are fitted to number plates and can only be removed with a specialist, custom tool. Police say the free service is aimed at reducing the risk of registration plates being stolen.

Officers from the Gympie Patrol group have received a number of reports of number plate thefts. Some plates were taken from front yards or driveways, while others were stolen when vehicles were parked around town or at work.

Police reminded drivers it is their responsibility to make sure number plates are on their vehicle, clear and visible. That includes cleaning dirt and cover plates so the plates can be read.

If a number plate is lost or stolen, the law gives owners 14 days to replace it. The same applies to damaged or destroyed plates, and fines can apply.

Anyone with information for police can contact Policelink using the online suspicious activity form, available 24 hours a day via the Queensland Police reporting page. Information can also be reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or through the Crime Stoppers Queensland website.