Persisting Increase in Motor Vehicle Thefts in Germany
Last year saw a surge in vehicle thefts in Germany, as reported by the Federal Criminal Police Office (BKA). Around 15,900 vehicles were reported stolen, marking a 9% increase compared to the previous year.
The number of vehicles permanently gone due to unauthorized taking also saw a significant increase of 18.6%, reaching a five-year high. Cars can be categorized as misappropriated under various circumstances, such as when a rental car is not returned post the rent period.
The BKA's annual report on motor vehicle crime revealed an uptick in large vehicle thefts as well. The number of stolen trucks surged by 48% to around 1,000 cases, majorly due to a series of small truck thefts in Berlin.
On the contrary, the number of stolen motorhomes remained relatively unchanged, with about 470 cases reported. However, due to their high market value, motorhomes continue to attract the attention of international criminal groups, warned the BKA.
The number of suspects linked to motor vehicle crimes witnessed a nearly 10% increase to 19,660 last year. A significant majority of these suspects operated in organized groups. Approximately 10,700 were German citizens, making up around 54% of the total.
The number of vehicles stolen last year witnessed a 9% increase, reaching 15,900 according to the BKA's report. Additionally, the number of stolen trucks soared by 48%, highlighting a specific trend in large vehicle thefts.
