A report reveals that vehicles with ‘KD’ registration plates are most stolen in Kenya, predominantly Toyota models. Total thefts in 2024 dropped to 327 from 419 in 2023, while recovery rates improved to 15.92%. Whites, station wagons, and certain insured value ranges are also highlighted as risk factors.
A recent report highlights a concerning trend in car thefts across Kenya, indicating that vehicles registered with plates starting with ‘KD’ are the most targeted. Specifically, in 2024, vehicles with these plates accounted for half of all reported thefts. The number of vehicles stolen dropped from 419 in 2023 to 327 in 2024.
The Association of Kenya Insurers (AKI) reveals that 50.15% of stolen vehicles had ‘KD’ plates, followed by ‘KC’ at 35.17%, ‘KB’ at 10.40%, and ‘KA’ at 1.83%. Furthermore, Toyota vehicles are the most frequently stolen brand, making up 54.91% of reported cases, including Isuzu (12.88%), Mazda (7.06%), Nissan (5.83%), and Mitsubishi (3.99%).
Station wagons, such as the Toyota Fielder and Subaru Outback, are particularly at risk, representing 67.80% of thefts. Other vehicles targeted include lorries (11.46%), saloons (6.81%), and pickups (3.72%). The report also discusses color trends, indicating that white vehicles are the most stolen, at 39.80%, followed by silver (16.72%) and black (15.38%).
In terms of insured value, most stolen vehicles are valued at less than Ksh1 million. Those valued between Ksh1 million and Ksh2 million constitute 26.07% of thefts, while vehicles over Ksh3 million represent 27.3%. The most expensive theft in 2024 involved a Mitsubishi lorry worth Ksh12.2 million.
The report notes that car theft incidents primarily involve the theft of parts (54.28%), vehicles stolen while parked (31.91%), and hijackings (7.24%). Although theft cases have declined overall, only 15.92% of stolen vehicles were recovered in 2024, an improvement from 11.72% the previous year.
This information is utilized within AKI’s Insurance Motor Database System (IMIDS) to assist underwriters in identifying vehicles reported stolen. The National Police Service (NPS) emphasizes the importance of enhancing security measures, as reported vehicle thefts rose to 1,687 in 2023 from 1,459 in 2022, posing an ongoing security challenge for vehicle owners.
The report highlights the alarming prevalence of vehicle theft in Kenya, particularly targeting models with ‘KD’ plates and Toyota brands. While theft rates have declined, recovery remains low, and owners are urged to bolster vehicle security. Continuous monitoring through systems like IMIDS aims to improve traceability and insurance practices.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
