Imagine driving only to notice a car similar to yours complete even with the same licence plate number pass by.

Sounds impossible? Think again.

The police have confirmed that the illicit activity of 'vehicle cloning' has become alarmingly prevalent while it is suspected that the criminals involved are being aided by 'internal sources' who sell vehicle particulars.

"Yes, it is very widespread. There are several cases currently before the courts," head of the Stolen Motor Vehicle Unit of the Organised Crime Division, Deputy Superintendent Norman Hamilton, said, adding that Kingston, St Andrew, St Catherine and St Ann are most affected. He said the activity is not restricted to any vehicle whether 'high end' or 'low end'.

Despite its prevalence, however, the police said vehicle cloning is very hard to detect.

Ways in which it may be uncovered include during the transferring or the applications for vehicle titles. This may be so if the car's chassis number or licence plate number is found to be linked to another vehicle and owner.

In a similar way, the police may uncover it during a check of a vehicle's chassis number. In another case, it can be discovered accidentally.

This is exactly what happened to car owner *Kerry-Ann.

In October, another vehicle slammed into the back of hers. The driver of the vehicle chose to speed off, but she managed to scribble down the licence plate number. She went to the police and checks led them to an out-of-town address.

However, subsequent investigations led to them finding that the vehicle was not involved the accident. The vehicle which sped off was, as a result, theorised to be a cloned car.

In another incident, a police corporal from St Catherine bought a vehicle only to see an identical car, with the same registration plate number, cruising by.

Consequently, vehicle owners are being urged to play their part in ensuring they don't become a victim. Hamilton said there are certain measures which can prove helpful while the police do their best in cracking down on the activity.

"There are some safety tips which persons can follow. Collect titles early and keep close contact with institutions which act as collectorates during transactions with vehicles. Also be careful of which garages you take your vehicle to," he urged.

* Name changed upon request .