The spread of car theft phenomenon in Canada and the government is considering solutions
The American newspaper “The New York Times” shed light on the increasing car theft in Canada, especially in the city of Toronto; where thefts increased by 150% in the past six years.
The latest statistics indicate a 24% increase in thefts in 2022 across Canada, according to the newspaper report, adding that many people know someone whose car was stolen there, and almost everyone can immediately recall one of the car theft headlines that news platforms have had many opportunities to publish.
According to the newspaper report, groups have been formed on social media to help track and find stolen cars, but most people in the comments urge owners of stolen cars to surrender to the fact that their cars may be in shipping containers for smuggling abroad.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said in a speech at the Car Theft Summit in Ottawa: “Organized crime has become bolder, and the international black market for stolen cars is expanding.”
The goal of the meeting was to reassure Canadians that the government was aware of the issue and that it is considering several responses, including increasing penalties for car thieves, investing in border services agency, and banning imports of major hacking devices.
The government did not escape car theft, as two Toyota Highlander cars were stolen three times in Ottawa from the current and former justice ministers.
Homeowners are increasingly seeking solutions to protect their car passages as well, such as installing barriers, which the police in Canada commend.
“The New York Times” said that the most modest cars are a source of livelihood for thieves, such as the Honda CR-V, or Ford F-150 trucks, as luxury cars are considered prizes for those thieves.
The newspaper pointed out that some wealthy car collectors store their cars in secret locations with around-the-clock security and dogs at night, but thieves always find a way to steal them.
