Owners of imported cars urged to add extra security measures following increase in thefts

An Garda Síochána say more than 4,000 vehicles were reported stolen across Ireland last year — a 52% increase on 2021

Criminals will often target specific manufacturers and models which they know lack certain security features. File Picture: iStock

Gardaí are urging owners of cars imported from outside the European Union to consider retrofitting them with alarms and immobilisers and to ensure their security. 

According to newly-released statistics, there were 4,000 vehicles reported stolen across the country in 2022 — a 52% increase in the previous year's total.