Drivers given 'act now' warning to install 'substantial gate' as epidemic hits UK

Motorists have been issued a stark warning about 'car cannibals' who are increasingly stripping vehicles of their parts - even in broad daylight.

The surge in thefts has been attributed to the rising cost of car parts, which have seen an approximate increase of 35 percent, leading criminals to steal rather than purchase replacements.  

Shockingly, police data from last year revealed a 72 percent increase in chop shops compared to 2022.

Clive Wain, a vehicle theft expert and head of police liaison at Tracker, explained that the production of new parts has been impacted by various global factors.  He said this parts shortage has increased demand for black-market spares.   

Clive said: "This, coupled with the cost-of-living crisis, has seen demand grow for quality second-hand parts leading to this latest car crime spate."

"Even basic parts prices like discs, brake pads and wiper blades have shot up, so car cannibalisation can be a very lucrative market for criminals."

With the rise in such cases and the proliferation of chop shops, Mr Wain emphasised the "urgent need to ramp up vehicle security", reports Birmingham Live.   

The thefts occur either in illegal chop shops or brazenly at the roadside, he warned. Criminals are stealing items such as headlights and steering wheels, which are then sold for cash or on the black market, both domestically and internationally.

He implored drivers to "do all they can to deter criminals from targeting their car" regardless of its location. Mr Wain recommended that motorists should consider investing in a dashcam or visible CCTV, and make a point of parking in well-lit areas or on secure driveways or garages.

He also advised ensuring your alarm is current and mulling over the installation of a "substantial gate" which acts as a "physical barrier for the car" if parked on a driveway.