GTA Faces Surge in Auto Theft and Violent Carjackings

Police efforts intensify as carjackings rise 106% in York Region over the past year, highlighting high demand for luxury vehicles overseas.

Over 30,000 vehicles were stolen in Ontario last year, contributing to a national crisis as labeled by the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
Most stolen cars are shipped to Africa and the Middle East, where vehicles like Toyotas, Hondas, and luxury brands are in high demand.
A 17% decline in overall auto thefts was noted in the first half of 2024, but carjackings and overnight break-ins for car keys have increased.
York Regional Police have formed a task force to specifically combat the rise in violent carjackings, which have surged by 400% since 2019.
The cost of insurance claims for stolen vehicles in Canada surpassed $1.5 billion in 2023, leading to higher insurance premiums for car owners.