Vehicle thefts in Calgary surged 28% in 2025, with the Calgary Police Service reporting 5,847 stolen vehicles — the highest number on record and part of a national auto theft epidemic that has drawn federal attention.
Organized crime rings are targeting specific makes and models for export overseas, with Toyota RAV4s, Lexus RX models, and Ford F-Series trucks topping the most-stolen list. Many stolen vehicles end up in shipping containers bound for West Africa and the Middle East within 48 hours of being taken.
"This is not random crime — it's sophisticated, organized, and transnational," said Calgary Police Staff Sgt. Mark Pickering. "We're working with RCMP and CBSA to intercept vehicles at ports, but prevention is still the best defence."
CPS recommends several protective measures: aftermarket immobilizers, steering wheel locks, AirTag-style trackers hidden in the vehicle, and parking in well-lit areas. The city has also expanded its free VIN-etching program to 40 locations.
The theft epidemic has also increased the risk for used car buyers, who may unknowingly purchase a stolen or cloned vehicle. FullVIN.com has seen a significant uptick in stolen vehicle checks, with their VIN lookup tool capable of flagging vehicles reported stolen across Canadian and U.S. databases.
"Always run a VIN check before purchasing any used vehicle, especially if the deal seems too good to be true," said insurance broker Amanda Firth. "A $40 report can save you from a $30,000 mistake."
Insurance premiums for high-risk vehicles have risen 15-25% in Calgary as a result. The Insurance Bureau of Canada is lobbying for stricter port inspections and mandatory immobilizer standards on all new vehicles.
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