Surge in Vehicle Thefts Hits Mira-Bhayander-Vasai-Virar Area

*Rising Theft Rates*

Vehicle thefts in the Mira-Bhayander-Vasai-Virar (MBVV) area have dramatically increased this year, with police reporting 310 cases registered in just eight months. This marks a significant rise from 200 thefts recorded in the same period last year. Local authorities are investigating the underlying causes of this spike, including the role of organized crime syndicates.

*Demand for Cheap Vehicles*

Police attribute the surge in thefts to a high demand for inexpensive vehicles, particularly in rural areas. Stolen cars and bikes are often sold without any paperwork, making them attractive to buyers looking for bargains. The absence of designated parking areas has also contributed to the problem. Many vehicles are parked in secluded lanes, making them easy targets for thieves.

*Lack of Parking Solutions*

In response to the parking crisis, MBVV traffic police identified 300 locations for an illegal parking initiative last September. However, a year later, the project has yet to take off, largely due to the failure of local civic bodies to implement necessary signage. Residents have expressed frustration, as the shortage of official parking leads to vehicles being left vulnerable to theft.

*Thieves Adopting Advanced Techniques

Modern car thieves are employing increasingly sophisticated methods, putting even high-tech vehicles at risk. Many cars are equipped with advanced safety features like keyless entry systems, which thieves can bypass using technology to scan barcodes embedded in windshields. This allows them to unlock and even remotely access vehicles.

*Inter-State Crime Syndicates*

The police recently apprehended a gang involved in vehicle theft and recovered 47 stolen vehicles. Investigations revealed that these gangs often forge documents to register stolen cars in northeastern states like Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland. They then transfer the registrations back to Maharashtra for resale under different numbers, complicating recovery efforts.

Avinash Ambure, Deputy Commissioner of the Crime Branch, emphasized the need for vigilance among buyers. He advised potential purchasers of second-hand vehicles to thoroughly verify documents to ensure they are not acquiring stolen property.

As authorities work to combat the rising tide of vehicle thefts in the MBVV area, community awareness and proactive measures will be crucial in protecting residents’ property.