Sarnia Police Service officials allege: Sarnia police are warning residents following a series of thefts and attempted thefts involving newer-model Toyota and Lexus vehicles over the past two nights.
Investigators believe the incidents are connected and that suspects are specifically targeting certain models from the two manufacturers.
The Sarnia Police Service said the individuals involved appear to be organized, travelling into the community from outside the area and leaving shortly after successfully stealing a vehicle.
Police believe the suspects are using sophisticated electronic methods rather than obtaining access to vehicle owners’ keys, allowing them to start and steal vehicles within minutes.
The service is encouraging residents to take precautions to reduce the risk of vehicle theft.
Recommended measures include parking vehicles inside a locked garage whenever possible, using a visible steering wheel lock, installing an aftermarket immobilizer approved by insurers or vehicle manufacturers, and parking another vehicle behind a potentially targeted vehicle at home.
Residents are also encouraged to park in well-lit areas, ensure residential security cameras are operational and keep vehicle keys and key fobs secured inside their homes.
Although the current incidents do not appear to involve relay attacks, police said protecting keys remains an important theft prevention measure.
The Sarnia Police Service is also asking residents to report suspicious activity involving individuals checking vehicle doors or using electronic devices around parked vehicles.
Anyone who witnesses a vehicle being stolen is asked to call 911. Non-emergency information can be reported to the Sarnia Police Service at 519-344-8861.
Police said the investigation is ongoing, with officers working alongside other police services and law enforcement agencies to identify and apprehend those responsible.
Efforts are focused on preventing additional thefts and holding those responsible accountable.
