04 June 2024 , 05:35
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Motorists have been issued a stark warning as 'car cannibals' are stripping vehicles of their parts, even in broad daylight. The rate of thefts has soared as the cost of car parts has surged by approximately 35 per cent, leading criminals to steal rather than fork out for replacements. Last year's data revealed a shocking 72 per cent increase in chop shops compared to 2022 - leaving many motorists to foot the bill when it comes to replacing their beloved vehicles.
Clive Wain, a vehicle theft expert and head of police liaison at Tracker, explained that the production of new parts has been impacted by various global factors. He said: "This, coupled with the cost-of-living crisis, has seen demand grow for quality second-hand parts leading to this latest car crime spate. Even basic parts prices like discs, brake pads and wiper blades have shot up, so car cannibalisation can be a very lucrative market for criminals." Mr Wain further warned that the surge in cases, along with the rise in chop shops, signifies an "urgent need to ramp up vehicle security."
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Speaking to Birmingham Live., He cautioned that these crimes occur either in illegal chop shops or brazenly at the side of the road in broad daylight. Criminals are stealing items such as headlights and steering wheels, which are then sold for cash or on the black market, both domestically and internationally.
He suggested motorists to "do all they can to deter criminals from targeting their car" regardless of where it is parked. Among his suggestions to help best secure your car, Mr Wain recommended that drivers should consider investing in a dashcam or visible CCTV to deter criminals - and crucially gather evidence should the worst arise.
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Additionally, he also advised that drivers take care in park in well-lit areas where possible and to choose secure driveways or garages if available. Taking things one step further, motorists are advised to always keep their car alarm up to date and even suggested considering the installation of practical anti-theft devices such as a "substantial gate" on driveways, that provides a "physical barrier for the car" to stop it from being driven away without an owner's consent.