The Association of Kenyan Insurers reported that Toyota vehicles have the highest theft rate in Kenya, comprising 54.91% of stolen cars in 2024. Vehicle thefts decreased by 28% from 2023, although recovery rates remain low at 15.92%. Station wagons and white vehicles are the most stolen, while the theft of parts is notably high. The report calls for enhanced security measures among vehicle owners.
A report released by the Association of Kenyan Insurers (AKI) indicates that Toyota vehicles have the highest likelihood of theft in Kenya, with a substantial 54.91 percent of the total stolen vehicles being Toyotas in 2024. The data, compiled from January 1 to December 31, 2024, highlights Toyota’s dominance in reported theft cases.
Following Toyota, other frequently targeted vehicle brands include Isuzu (12.88 percent), Mazda (7.06 percent), Nissan (5.83 percent), and Mitsubishi (3.99 percent). In total, 327 motor vehicles were reported stolen in 2024, reflecting a notable decrease of 28 percent from the 419 thefts recorded in 2023, which suggests an enhancement in security measures and increased vigilance among vehicle owners and authorities.
Despite the overall decline in thefts, the recovery rates are concerning, with only 15.92 percent of stolen vehicles being successfully recovered. Vehicles with registration numbers beginning with KDs were the most stolen, accounting for 50.15 percent, followed by KCs (35.17 percent), KBs (10.40 percent), and KAs (1.83 percent).
In terms of vehicle body types, station wagons represented the highest percentage of thefts at 67.80 percent. Other targeted types included Lorries (11.46 percent), Saloons (6.81 percent), and Pick-ups (3.72 percent). Additionally, white vehicles were the most stolen at 39.80 percent, followed by silver at 16.72 percent, and black at 15.38 percent.
The report also noted that a significant portion of the stolen vehicles had an insured value of less than Sh1 million (32.52 percent). Vehicles valued between Sh1 million and Sh2 million represented 26.07 percent, while those exceeding Sh3 million accounted for 27.3 percent. The most valuable theft recorded was a Mitsubishi Lorry worth Sh12.2 million.
The theft of vehicle parts was most prevalent at 54.28 percent, while 31.91 percent of vehicles were stolen while parked. Additionally, hijackings comprised 7.24 percent of the reported thefts.
In conclusion, the data from the Association of Kenyan Insurers indicates that Toyota vehicles are the most targeted for theft in Kenya, with the total number of vehicle thefts decreasing significantly from the previous year. However, recovery rates remain low, suggesting a need for further measures to combat vehicle theft. It is essential for vehicle owners to take proactive steps to ensure their security. The report provides critical insights into the trends of vehicle theft, highlighting the importance of continuous security improvements.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
