Top 10 Most Stolen Cars In Nigeria, Car Theft Prevention Measures

In today’s world, criminal tendencies are prevalent, and theft has become commonplace. Various incidents of theft have been reported across the country, and automobiles are among the targeted items.

However, criminals are no longer randomly selecting cars to steal; they now focus on specific vehicles due to a multitude of factors. These factors can vary from the level of demand for easy resale to the popularity of certain car models for the quick sale of their parts.

The severity of car theft in Nigeria has reached astonishing levels. It is no longer limited to thieves solely targeting the valuables inside vehicles; they are increasingly motivated to steal entire cars. The situation calls for heightened awareness and preventive measures to safeguard against these crimes.

Car Theft Prevention Measures

Car theft is a prevalent crime in many countries, and thieves often target specific cars based on various factors. These factors can include the demand for easy resale, popularity for the quick sale of parts, and other considerations. To combat car theft, it is essential for vehicle owners to take necessary precautions to protect their cars.

Here are some general tips to help prevent car theft:

1. Park in secure areas: Whenever possible, park your car in well-lit areas with high visibility and preferably with surveillance cameras. Choose secure parking lots, garages, or areas with security personnel.
2. Lock your car: Always lock your car and close all windows and sunroofs, even if you are leaving it unattended for a short time. Thieves often look for easy targets, so a locked car is a deterrent.
3. Use anti-theft devices: Install security systems in your vehicle, such as car alarms, immobilizers, steering wheel locks, or GPS tracking devices. These devices can deter thieves and help recover your car if it’s stolen.
4. Don’t leave valuables in plain sight: Keep your belongings out of sight to avoid tempting potential thieves. Stow valuables in the trunk or take them with you when you leave the car.
5. Be cautious with keys: Never leave your keys in the car, even for a moment. Keep your keys secure and avoid leaving spare keys inside the vehicle.
6. Be vigilant: Be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. If you notice any unfamiliar individuals or vehicles loitering around your car or parking area, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
7. Use secure parking at home: If possible, park your car in a locked garage or a secured compound at your residence. This provides an additional layer of protection.

Top 10 Most Stolen Cars In Nigeria

• Toyota Corolla:

The Toyota Corolla’s popularity and high demand make it an attractive target for thieves looking for quick resale opportunities, The Corolla is the most stolen vehicle and we all know the reason – DEMAND. The Toyota Corolla has remained the top target of car thieves in many states of the country due to its serious resale value and popularity. It’s no more news that owners of these Corollas are usually weary of parking their cars in unsecured places. If they are not stolen, they may be vandalised.

• Toyota Camry:

The Toyota Camry is another frequently stolen car model, known for its reliability, popularity, and high resale value, Compared to the Corolla model, Toyota Camry remains another car that thieves have their eyes on. The Camry is a little upscale but that doesn’t deter robbers from getting their hands on it. Also like the Corolla, the Camry has a high demand in Nigeria. Therefore, the possibility of a Camry Muscle or a Camry Big Daddy being stolen is high.

• Honda Accord:

The Honda Accord is a popular target due to its high demand, resale value, and common presence on Nigerian roads, Honda is known for its high-quality engines, this is one of many reasons the popular Japanese brand is always at risk. Accord remains one of the most popular models by Honda, making it a soft target for thieves.

Lexus RX:

Luxury vehicles like the Lexus RX can be targeted for their high-end parts and components, which can fetch a significant price in the black market, Amongst all the Lexus vehicles, the RX is the most sought-after. Also, demand for the RX is so high that criminals will do anything to steal it.

• Toyota Highlander:

The Toyota Highlander’s combination of reliability, utility, and popularity contributes to its attractiveness to thieves, The Highlander is another target for thieves and you guessed it right, DEMAND. The Highlander is an excellent SUV and it’s very popular in Nigeria so thieves will, as usual, want to do their thing on it. Guard it jealously.

Nissan Pathfinder:

The Nissan Pathfinder’s popularity and widespread use make it a potential target for theft, particularly for its parts and resale value.

• Honda CR-V:

The Honda CR-V is sought after for its reputation as a reliable and versatile SUV, making it appealing to thieves.

• Acura MDX:

Luxury SUVs like the Acura MDX are often targeted due to their high value and demand for both the vehicle as a whole and its valuable parts.

• Mercedes-Benz E-Class:

High-end luxury vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz E-Class can be stolen for their valuable parts, as well as their desirability on the black market, Well, this is an expensive offering for thieves but it is worth it for them. The E-Class is a difficult vehicle to steal because of its price but that doesn’t stop them because they can steal it for parts. The parts of the E-Class don’t come cheap. So, this will be a good reason to steal, dismantle and sell in pieces.

• Volkswagen Golf:

The Volkswagen Golf’s popularity, relatively easy accessibility, and demand for parts can make it an attractive option for car thieves.

How to Report a Stolen Cars

One of the functions of the Nigeria Police Force is to protect the properties of citizens. The Stolen Vehicle Report Portal by Nigeria police was created for members of the public to report their stolen and yet-to-be-recovered vehicles which occurred from 1st January 2018.

Incidents of vehicle theft are reported to the Nigeria Police Force for an investigation that would lead to the recovery of such vehicles and the apprehension and prosecution of the offenders. Some of the stolen vehicles end up not being recovered and the perpetrators end up escaping the long arms of the law. This tends to encourage continued indulgence in the unwholesome activity and attract other criminally-minded persons to engage in it.

How to Report

• Your vehicle had been stolen between January 2018 and 31st Dec 2022.
• The theft was reported to the Nigeria Police Force through one of its Divisions/Stations
• If not reported, go to the Police Station to make a report. Otherwise, Continue
• As of late, the vehicle is yet to be recovered, and then

Step 1

• visit https://reportcmr.npf.gov.ng/stolen
• Click Get Started to create a profile and register on the platform

Step 2

Select the Current State and LGA of residence and click Next

Step 3

Provide the required information about the stolen vehicle and submit

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