Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.
An organised crime group involved in the theft of over 100 keyless ignition vehicles valued at more than £2 million has left victims expressing deep distress over their losses. The gang specifically targeted vehicles primarily from Hampshire, Dorset, and Wiltshire, stealing 107 cars and vans between February and October 2023. Following their thefts, the vehicles were transported mostly at night from residential driveways to a dismantling site, or “chop shop,” in Surrey operated by another criminal network, where the vehicles were stripped for parts. Southampton Crown Court Judge Nigel Peters KC characterized the operation as a “sophisticated conspiracy” during sentencing.
The thieves exploited technology vulnerabilities by employing signal-boosting devices that mimicked the proximity of car key fobs, effectively unlocking keyless ignition vehicles without the owners’ awareness. Additionally, they used signal jamming gadgets to prevent cars from locking properly, leaving owners unaware that their vehicles had not secured. After these steps, the gang members would return under cover of darkness to steal the now-unlocked vehicles. One victim, Simon from Hampshire, shared the emotional impact of losing his van in May 2023. Having just finished paying it off after four years of use, the van, which he used for helping friends and moving charity goods, was later found abandoned with its wiring removed. He described the loss as “absolutely devastated” and a devastating blow to his livelihood.
Another victim, Lee, who lives in West Sussex, recounted the trauma of finding his van missing one morning in March 2023. Inside were tools worth £10,000 that were essential to his work designing and installing furniture. The theft not only cost him these tools but also forced him to quit his job, with losses estimated at £30,000 in potential earnings. He explained the overwhelming nature of the loss: “If you can imagine you’ve lost your mode of transport, you’ve lost your job and someone’s taken 12 grand out of your account, all at the one go. It really does have a long-term impact on you as a person.” Court statements from other victims included stories of vehicles stolen right before planned trips and loss of sentimental items, such as irreplaceable belongings connected to a victim’s late mother.
Among the stolen cars were high-end models like a Porsche and a Bentley. Of the 107 vehicles taken, authorities managed to recover 61, many in damaged condition or stripped for parts, while 46 remain missing. Cybersecurity expert Jake Moore warned of the increasing threat posed by crimes targeting keyless ignition vehicles, explaining that “modern cars are effectively computers on wheels,” vulnerable to sophisticated cyberattacks. He noted that while the convenience of push-button start systems is in demand, it brings inherent security risks that the public must be aware of as technology evolves.
The ringleaders of this criminal enterprise were sentenced last month after pleading guilty to charges including conspiracy to steal motor vehicles, handle stolen goods, and possession of criminal property. Earlier, eight additional members faced sentencing for their involvement, with Judge Peters KC emphasizing their active participation as drivers and lookouts in the conspiracy. Sentences varied, including jail terms suspended for 18 months and community orders, reflecting the different roles within the operation. One member, Matthew Watkins, received an 18-month suspended sentence and admitted to dangerous driving during a high-speed police chase on the M25, where he collided with stationary vehicles near Reigate but fortunately did not injure pedestrians.
Detective Constable Paul Beasley highlighted the profound effects the thefts had on victims, noting that some suffered losses so severe they lost their livelihoods or businesses. He remarked on the level of sophistication the criminals employed, stating, “The devastating effect it has had on victims is right up to people losing their livelihoods and
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
Auto Amazon Links: No products found. Blocked by captcha.