The Association of Kenyan Insurers (AKI) report for 2024 reveals that Toyota vehicles are at the highest risk of theft, accounting for 54.91% of incidents. Other notable brands include Isuzu, Mazda, and Nissan. Although overall theft numbers have declined, recovery rates remain concerning, with only 15.92% of stolen vehicles recovered. Station wagons and white vehicles are the most targeted types. The report highlights a need for improved security measures.
A recent report by the Association of Kenyan Insurers (AKI) has highlighted that Toyota vehicles are predominately targeted for theft in Kenya. The analysis was conducted using data from January 1 to December 31, 2024. Notably, Toyota vehicles constituted 54.91% of all reported thefts during this period.
Following Toyota, other frequently stolen brands include Isuzu at 12.88%, Mazda at 7.06%, Nissan at 5.83%, and Mitsubishi at 3.99%. The report indicates a total of 327 motor vehicles were reported stolen in 2024, which represents a significant 28% decrease from the 419 thefts recorded in 2023.
The findings suggested that enhanced security measures and greater awareness among vehicle owners and law enforcement have contributed to this decline. However, the recovery rate of stolen vehicles remains a critical issue, with only 15.92% being successfully recovered.
According to the report, vehicles with registration numbers beginning with KDs were the most stolen (50.15%), followed by KCs (35.17%), KBs (10.40%), and KAs (1.83%). In terms of body types, station wagons accounted for the majority of thefts at 67.80%, with lorries (11.46%), saloons (6.81%), and pick-ups (3.72%) also being targeted.
Color preferences for stolen vehicles showed that white vehicles were the most frequently stolen at 39.80%, followed by silver at 16.72% and black at 15.38%. Furthermore, the report indicated that a significant portion of stolen vehicles had an insured value of less than Sh1 million at 32.52%, while those valued between Sh1 million and Sh2 million accounted for 26.07%, and vehicles exceeding Sh3 million represented 27.3%.
The highest value vehicle stolen was a Mitsubishi Lorry worth Sh12.2 million. The report also noted theft of parts constituted the major type of theft at 54.28%, while vehicles stolen while parked accounted for 31.91%, and hijackings made up 7.24%.
The Association of Kenyan Insurers’ report underscores a troubling trend in vehicle theft in Kenya, particularly focusing on Toyota vehicles. While the overall number of thefts has declined, the recovery rate remains low, highlighting ongoing security challenges. Stakeholders must continue to advocate for enhanced security measures and greater vigilance amongst vehicle owners to combat this issue effectively.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
