Deputy Superintendent Glendale Murdock has shed light on a crucial re-programming gadget seized from two men attempting to steal vehicles at the Constant Spring tax office in St Andrew. This device enables criminals to steal a car within seconds, and it's part of a sophisticated syndicate's arsenal. Sophisticated car-stealing syndicates also possess devices capable of intercepting the frequency for vehicles with remote keyless entry.

How the Key Re-Programming Device Works

The key re-programming device is connected to the car's computer system, generating an alternative key in mere seconds. Murdock explained during a virtual meeting with community stakeholders that they had suspected such technology was in use but now have concrete evidence with the seized device. "We had formed the theory that these persons have technology at their disposal, using it in the theft of motor vehicles. But now we can confirm that because we have seized one of these devices," he said.This device gives criminals an edge, allowing them to gain access to vehicles quickly. It's a significant development in the rise of stolen motor vehicles across the St Andrew North Police Division.

Disarming Trackers and Adding Protection

Criminals are able to disarm trackers, making it even more difficult to recover stolen vehicles. As Murdock pointed out, "We are seeing where persons are able to steal a motor vehicle in under a minute. And we have seen where car thieves are sometimes able to disarm trackers, so we ask you to add another layer of protection." This highlights the need for residents to take extra precautions.A keyless remote, commonly used in vehicles with push-button start, relies on radio frequency to send instructions. However, there are those who possess devices that can intercept this frequency and replicate it to gain access to cars.

Arrests and Recovered Technology

The police have made "numerous" arrests and recovered other "sophisticated technology" being used by criminals. Although specific details have not been disclosed, this shows the police's efforts in combating car theft. A total of 141 motor vehicles valued at $196 million were reported stolen across the St Andrew North Police Division in the first 10 months of the year, a nearly 20% increase year-on-year. Nineteen of those vehicles, valued approximately $30 million, have been recovered. Ninety-five percent of motor vehicle thefts occurred on weekends between midnight and 6 a.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. Seventy-seven were Toyotas, 24 were Nissans, and 15 were Hondas.Deputy Superintendent Dalian Clarke, head of operations for the division, stated that "a majority" of the vehicles were stolen from the Constant Spring area, mainly in Havendale, Meadowbrook, and Mannings Hill Road.

The Impact of Stolen Vehicles

Stolen motor vehicles are mainly scrapped for parts or sold for well below market value. As Murdock noted, "Vehicles are being stolen, and if you look at the value these thefts are generating, it is a significant amount of money that is being placed in the hands of criminals." This not only causes financial losses to vehicle owners but also contributes to the illegal market for auto parts.An investigator in another police division disclosed that the police have begun to focus on the increasing number of auto parts stores popping up across the country. "We have to try and find out where they are getting their parts from …. Those have to be part of the analysis and the investigation," he said.Murdock urged residents to be vigilant during the Christmas season and invest in multiple anti-theft devices for their vehicles. By taking these precautions, residents can help reduce the number of car thefts and protect their vehicles.