Anti-theft devices

18th September 1970, Page 292

18th September 1970

Page 292

Page 292, 18th September 1970 — Anti-theft devices

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by Inspector K. W. Norman,

Crime Prevention Section, New Scotland Yard.

• Most new models of light vans which are derivatives of cars are being produced with anti-theft devices fitted as standard equipment, and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders is currently engaged in discussion's to settle the terms of another voluntary agreement to include other commercial vehicles.

Standard equipment

Until now, the anti-theft device favoured by vehicle manufacturers as standard equipment, has been the steering column lock. However, the agreement does not confine the choice of device to a steering column lock but merely specifies that the vehicles subject to the agreement should be fitted with: lii a steering column lock; or (9) a gear shift lock: or (iill a means of preventing the selection of a forward drive gear; or (iv) a means of preventing the starting or running of the engine.

It also specified that methods Mil and (iv) must not be vulnerable to bridging, destruction or otherwise made ineffective.

The choice of the steering column lock has been influenced by its high security standard and the fact that it satisfies overseas markets.

The experience of police officers engaged in the enforcement of the Removal and Disposal of Vehicles Regulations 1968, indicates that a steering column lock properly locked, cannot be overcome quickly without an exact duplicate key. Consequently, vehicles secured in this way have to be removed on a dolly. By "overcome", I mean that the bolt is withdrawn from the steering column collar by means other than the correct key, the engine started and the vehicle driven away in a normal fashion without danger of the bolt being released and re-engaging the collar.

Fuel cut-out

It is possible that some British manufacturers of diesel-engined commercial vehicles may choose to implement any agreement entered into with the Society in respect of commercial vehicles by fitting a key-operated fuel cut-out valve as an antitheft device. This method should satisfy the terms of any future agreement and dispel objections from quarters interested in the. safety aspect of a diesel vehicle fitted with a device whereby the steering column is locked but the engine is not immobilized.

Ideally, the high standard of security offered by the steering column lock should be complemented by a fuel cut-out valve operated by the same key and simultaneously with the mechanism of the lock.