Following a month-long investigation, investigators with the York Regional Police Auto Cargo Theft Unit have recovered 161 stolen vehicles with a total value of more than $10 million dollars.
York Regional Police and services across the Greater Toronto area has seen an increase in thefts of vehicles from residential driveways, with the majority of thefts have occurring between midnight and 6 a.m.
The York Regional Police Auto/Cargo Theft Unit, with the valued assistance of the Canadian Pacific Police Service, the Canada Border Services Agency and Equité Association, have remained active and aggressive in efforts to combat this crime. Through investigation and interdiction, the above partners were able to successfully recover these stolen vehicles that were headed for various locations in Africa and the Middle East.
This investigation is ongoing. York Regional Police and our partners remain vigilant in our efforts to locate and recover stolen vehicles and to identify the criminal groups behind the thefts.
A video of the recovered vehicles can be found here:
Residents should be aware that the thieves are able to gain entry into the vehicle by lock manipulation or by electronic means to steal vehicles from the driveways of unsuspecting victims while ensuring not to set off alarms. Once inside, an electronic device, typically used by mechanics to reprogram the factory setting or identify engine error codes, is connected to a port below the dashboard and programs the vehicle to accept a key the thieves have brought with them. Once the new key is programmed, the vehicle will start and the thieves drive it away. The entire process only takes two to five minutes. Once stolen, vehicles are typically shipped overseas in shipping containers.
Vehicle owners are encouraged to consider the following safety tips to help prevent their vehicles from being stolen:
• If possible, park your vehicle in a locked garage, as the majority of the vehicles have been stolen from driveways
• Use a steering wheel lock. It will also act as a visible deterrent
• Install a lock on the data port. This simple device can be purchased online and blocks access to the computer port where the thieves gain access to reprogram the vehicle’s keys
• Consider purchasing a quality video surveillance system. Ensure cameras are properly placed and functioning for day and night time use. Familiarize yourself with the system so it can be reviewed and accessed immediately
Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police York Regional Police Auto Cargo Theft Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext.6651, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
