You aren't violating your ID demanding them to hand over the code. All wrecks belong to the government who controls the space the wreck resides in.
Meaning by taking the code, they've stolen from the government and that is perfect grounds to demand them hand over the stolen goods. Is this written in the law books? Nope.
There is also nothing in the law books about broken tail lights but I've seen the LPI issue fines for them. Nothing in Gallia's laws mentions speeding in a trade lane, but I've seen a GRP levy a fine on a trader for doing it. It is called role play. The houses aren't going to list every single little law.
As for them getting away? If you're a serious code hunter you should have a good CD on you. Pretty easy to make a blue message out of a CSV.