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Police are breaking into drivers' cars as part of a new initiative to help reduce crime.
Safer neighbourhood officers in Richmond are opening unlocked cars, removing valuables and leaving a 'crime prevention' note on the driver's seat.
They will then look for the owner nearby and hand the items back to them. If they can't find the owner valuables will be taken to the nearest police station.
Valuable items left on display including sat-navs and CD players can be later collected by the owner.
A letter addressed to the driver explains what happened and who they need to contact to retrieve their goods.
Those who leave their car unsecured with nothing on display will still receive a letter - either by post or in the car - telling them to be more careful.
What do you think of police breaking into people's cars? Have your say on the Auto Trader Blog
The scheme began last week in Richmond, which has seen a recent rise in car theft. Officers are on the lookout for cars which are unlocked, have open windows or doors left ajar.
A spokesperson for West London Police said: "We're trying to raise awareness of leaving vehicles unsecured and unattended.
"Any valuable items found in unlocked cars will be taken to a local police station for the driver to collect."
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Luke Midson wrote on our blog: "It's just the same thing as theft. I'd be annoyed with the police if they did that - they have no legal right to steal other people's belongings."
A spokesperson for the RAC said: "Perhaps this might make people think more and make sure they lock their car, but it does seem like a dubious way to go about it."
"The onus is on the driver to make sure they've locked the car in the first place."
The scheme is ongoing and was previously trialled for six weeks in smaller areas.