I always just assumed it perhaps had to do with either car theft or perhaps mod theft (i.e. expensive stereo..) if the thief was located nearby.

Maybe in the future a chop-shop gets a 'request' for VX body panels after they become difficult to find. He browses enthusiasts sites and sees some pics with plate #. Is able to ascertain their locations via the plate #. Finds one not too far....steals it.

Probably a stretch though...just paranoid I suppose!