The Metropolitan Police has warned that criminals are using sophisticated methods to target vehicles and steal hood ornaments.
A crime spree across the capital saw more than 70 car badges stolen over the course of four days, with Volkswagen vehicles targeted.
The Met confirmed that it would be investigating incidents between July 15 and 19 after victims claimed that the front badges of their Volkswagen models were stolen.
Experts have warned that the badges contain several vital sensors for driver-assistance features, potentially putting motorists in danger when behind the wheel.
The badges could potentially be worth hundreds of pounds, and, concerningly, can be removed from the vehicle in a matter of seconds.
Speaking to The Times, one victim reported that she had seen a drone flying over her garden before the badge from her Volkswagen T-Roc was stolen.
She described it as being "highly organised", adding that the criminals "knew exactly" where every car was parked.
Another victim, Graham Dunn, explained that he had contacted the Metropolitan Police with CCTV footage of the theft.
He added: "It was two guys on Lime bikes, it took sub-five seconds, and they've done nearly two grand of damage in that time. They harvested this area."
The incidents are reported to have taken place in Catford, Forest Hill, Ladywell, Honor Oak, East Dulwich and Lewisham.
PC Olly Rutherford, who is leading the investigation into the thefts, noted that there were around 70 thefts that are believed to have taken place.
He said: "We are aware of a number of incidents in south-east London over recent weeks in which car badges, including the vehicle's radar sensors, have been stolen.
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"Inquiries remain underway and we would ask anyone else who believes they have been victim of this type of crime to report the details to us.
"Similarly, anyone who has information which has not yet been shared with police is asked to get in touch with us as soon as possible."
The Met has urged motorists with Volkswagen models to park in secure, well-lit areas to reduce the chances of having their vehicles targeted.
Similar advice applies to any owners of vehicles with sophisticated Advanced Driver Assistance Systems technology installed in their vehicles.
GB News has contacted Volkswagen for a comment.
This is not the first time that thieves have targeted Volkswagen badges, although a previous spate of thefts was inspired by hip hop icons, Beastie Boys.
Mike D was pictured frequently wearing a Volkswagen badge on a chain around his neck in the music video for the band's hit (You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (To Party!).
It inspired a spate of thefts across the world as hip hop fans attempted to emulate Mike D and the Beastie Boys in the 1980s.
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