How motorists can protect their cars from thieves
The Wicklow PeopleMotorists are being urged to take extra precautions to protect their vehicles in Wicklow, after gardaí warned of a significant rise in the theft of Japanese import cars across the county.
The warning comes after an Ashford family were targeted on Sunday night last week, when four masked men, armed and wearing balaclavas, allegedly broke into their home while the owner, his partner and their young child were asleep upstairs.
After allegedly entering through a front window, the suspects stole the keys to two vehicles before driving away in an Audi and a Volkswagen Golf.
The homeowner said one of the vehicles was a Japanese import fitted with an immobiliser and alarm. However, neither security feature deterred the thieves
Why some vehicles are more attractive to thieves
Crime prevention officer for Wicklow, Sergeant John Fitzpatrick said many Japanese imports are particularly attractive to criminals because, unlike vehicles built for the European market, they often do not have factory-fitted immobilisers that meet EU security standards.
Models such as the Toyota Aqua and Nissan March have become regular targets because they are easily identifiable and relatively straightforward to steal.
“They stand out because they are not commonly available on the European market,” he said.
How motorists can protect their vehicles from theft
Rather than relying solely on factory security, Sgt Fitzpatrick urged owners to fit visible steering wheel locks, chains or pedal locks, explaining that most thieves are looking for an easy target and will often move on if a vehicle takes too long to steal.
Faraday pouches or boxes should also be used to store key fobs, preventing criminals from using electronic devices to amplify the signal and unlock keyless vehicles remotely.
Retailers such as Halfords, and many online motoring stores stock Faraday pouches and signal-blocking boxes.
Parking in well-lit, off-street locations where possible, removing valuables from vehicles and developing a nightly routine of checking doors are locked before going to bed are all simple measures that can reduce the risk of theft.
Tracking devices are also strongly recommended, as they not only improve the chances of recovering stolen vehicles but can also provide valuable assistance to gardaí during investigations.
Sgt Fitzpatrick, said many of the vehicles are not stolen for financial gain but are often driven dangerously before being abandoned or recovered badly damaged.
What to do if you suspect a vehicle theft
Gardaí are warning members of the public not to confront anyone they believe may be attempting to steal a vehicle, but instead to call gardaí immediately.