British police warn that gangs steal cars and parts and export them in under 24 hours. The vehicles end up in markets across Europe and Africa. Recent investigations also highlight Cyprus, where officers trace vehicles heading to the island only hours after theft, according to a BBC report.
Sergeant Ross Haybourne leads Kent Police’s Rural Task Force, confirming that the gangs operate “to order”. They systematically target areas in southern and south-east England. Mr. Haybourne notes a common pattern, where, stolen parts leave the country, reach Europe, then return online to UK by unsuspecting buyers.
Police place heavy focus on operations at Dover Port. These operations aim to identify stolen cars and agricultural machinery. During one operation, officers stopped a vehicle stolen the previous day, which was already heading for Cyprus. Haybourne says an organised network had “specifically ordered” the vehicle.
Traffickers use extensive routes. Some vehicles appear in France, others reach North Africa. Smugglers move entire cars across borders. In other cases, they export cars dismantled in illegal “chop shops”. Engines, steering wheels and mirrors leave separately.
UK Moves to Tighten Legislation on Keyless Theft Devices
Meanwhile, the UK Government is advancing new legislation banning possession of electronic devices used to steal keyless vehicles, which are sold on the black market for more than £20,000. Offenders risk prison sentences of up to five years.
The surge in thefts has taken a heavy toll on members of the public, including Lee from West Sussex, who lost his van and tools worth £10,000. He was forced to abandon his job, resulting in an estimated £30,000 loss in potential income. The gang that targeted him stole over 100 vehicles across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire, which ended up in a dismantling warehouse in Surrey before being shipped to Europe for resale as used parts.
Authorities believe thefts will decrease only if access to specialised electronic devices is restricted. As a Thatcham Research expert stresses, such devices “exist for one reason only, to steal cars”.
Also read: VIDEO: How seized drugs are destroyed in Cyprus
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