A recent report from Thatcham Research and the National Vehicle Crime Intelligence Service (NaVCIS) reveals that organised crime gangs are driving a rise in vehicle thefts across the UK, resulting in insurance claims reaching as high as £640 million in 2024.
Despite the UK’s world-leading vehicle security standards, high-end cars, SUVs, and pickups are being targeted by criminal groups to meet international demand for vehicles and parts. Export destinations include the Democratic Republic of Congo, UAE, Cyprus, Jamaica and Georgia.
According to the data, one vehicle was stolen every five minutes in 2024; 52% of the recovered vehicles were luxury or premium models, and 80% of those were SUVs.
Shortages, natural disasters, and geopolitical events have contributed to increased demand for these vehicles and parts.
Thatcham Research has called for increased efforts to tackle this issue, including making stolen parts less reusable, introducing remote vehicle immobilisation strategies, and improving collaboration between key stakeholders.
Thatcham Research chief research and operations officer, Richard Billyeald, said: “The organised criminal gangs who have replaced casual thieves are well-funded and sophisticated in their approach, combining specialist electronic equipment with an international logistics network.”
He added: "Raising vehicle security alone will not prevent thefts, we believe that beating these criminals requires cooperation between government agencies, vehicle manufacturers and ourselves to reduce the value of stolen assets and therefore the incentive to steal them."
