Car thieves across the UK look to have had more reason than most to celebrate the end of pandemic lockdown this summer, as they showed increased activity in stealing cars.
It’s unlikely that those thieves were staying at home and adhering to strict guidelines during lockdown, more likely that there were fewer opportunities to target vulnerable vehicles as fewer of us ventured out.
But new data published by stolen vehicle recovery experts Tracker showed that the volume of car thefts was up by almost a third (32%) by the end of June, compared to the end of January where we were all stuck at home (and the weather was obviously colder - maybe car thieves don’t like the colder weather?).
The analysis revealed some interesting insights, with SUVs once again at the top of the wanted list when it comes to car thefts. Of the £4.2 million worth of vehicles recovered by Tracker, more than half were expensive 4x4s.
“Our latest figures show that – just like in 2020 – as prolonged periods of lockdown eased, theft of vehicles increased,” said Claive Wain from Tracker.
“May was a particularly busy month for criminals who made up for lost time.
The total value of vehicles we recovered in May was almost three times higher than in January, with an average vehicle value of more than £31,000, compared to just £13,000 in the first month of the year.”
He added: “Now that almost all restrictions have formally lifted, all car owners need to be aware of the risk and take steps to protect their vehicles, beyond relying on a
factory-fitted alarm.
“Visible physical deterrents that help dissuade many would-be criminals include alarm systems, wheel clamps and steering locks.
“Those with keyless entry vehicles also need to safeguard their key fob, for example, keeping them inside a metal container that blocks the key’s signal so it cannot be extended to remotely unlock and start the vehicle.”
According to Tracker’s data, Range Rovers and Land Rovers accounted for 29 per cent of all stolen vehicles recovered - though it may be that owners of those premium models are more likely to afford the Tracker technology and subscription.