Sharp rise in motor thefts in Laois and Offaly
Vehicle thefts jumped by 36% in twelve months
There has been a sharp rise in the number of motor thefts reported in Laois and Offaly last year, according to new figures released.
There was a 36% increase in thefts of vehicles in Laois and Offaly in 2024 with 162 recorded, up from 119 incidents from the previous 12 months.
Nationally there were 7,919 motor thefts in 2024, a 4% increase since last year and the highest figure recorded since 2012.
Dublin makes up the majority of motor thefts in 2024 with 4305 vehicles stolen, followed by 851 in Cork and 502 in Limerick.
Following the release of the Central Statistics Office (CSO) 2024 statistics OUTsurance, the Irish based car insurance company, has issued guidance to the public about the increasing risks of motor theft across the country.
Commenting on the latest motor theft statistics, OUTsurance Ireland CMO Ian Kennedy, said: “The growing trend of motor thefts continued last year, with 2024 surpassing 2023 figures - increasing by 4%. The Irish public needs to be increasingly vigilant in protecting their vehicles and ensure not to make simple mistakes like leaving keys near their front door or valuables on display in their vehicle.”
The company advised the public to double check that your vehicle is secure, install a steering wheel lock, keep valuables out of sight, use a GPS tracker, be cautious with spare keys and park in busy, well-lit areas.