There were 614 vehicles stolen in the last 31 days in Mississauga and Brampton

Although Peel Regional Police have seen a slight dwindle in vehicle thefts in the last few months, crimes of this nature are a growing problem in the Mississauga and Brampton neighbourhoods with over 600 incidents this past month.

From Sept. 20  to Oct. 21, Peel police data indicates a combined 614 vehicle thefts were reported across both cities — 395 in Mississauga and 219 in Brampton.

This works out to approximately 19 thefts or more per day in the region.

As of today (Oct. 21) only 4 stolen vehicle cases have been successfully solved, while 584  are still being investigated and 26  are deemed unsolved.

Of these stolen vehicles 533 were automobiles (cars), 59 trucks, 10 motorcycles and 2 were simply listed as “others.”

The following map shows where this past month’s auto thefts took place:

Peel police data highlights the top 10 common hotspots for these carjacking’s:

• Airport Rd.
• City Centre Dr.
• Derry Rd.
• Dixie Rd.
• Dundas St.
• Great Lakes Dr.
• Hurontario St.
• Queen St.
• Terminal Three Rd.
• Viscount Rd.

Compared to the same time last year ( Sept. 20 – Oct. 21, 2022) the vehicle theft count was sitting at a substantially low number 0f 6 incidents for Mississauga and Brampton—which means that the astonishing rise in carjacking’s could pose a fear among residents.

According to Peel police data, car thefts saw a worrying uptick of about 6.42 per cent from June to July of this year, and the trend continued in July to August— with an increase of roughly 6.44 per cent.

However, there’s was a bit of relief in September, where the rise slowed down to approximately 3.17 per cent.

The temporary downturn was swiftly reversed, as October brought a notable 25 per cent surge in car thefts, according to Peel police data.

In a recent press conference held on Mar. 21 (2023), Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah said that car thefts are dramatically increasing, particularly in Mississauga and Brampton where the per capita rate is the highest in the country.

Insights into the patterns of car thefts reveal that certain areas are more vulnerable than others, prompting local residents to take extra precautions.

Peel police have shared helpful tips to prevent residents from falling victim to auto thefts:

• if possible, park your vehicle in a locked garage, as the majority of the vehicles have been stolen from driveways.
• use a steering wheel lock. It will also act as a visible deterrent.
• install a lock on the data port. This simple device can be purchased online and blocks access to the computer port where the thieves gain access to reprogram the vehicle’s keys.
• consider purchasing a quality video surveillance system. Ensure cameras are properly placed and functioning for day and night use. Familiarize yourself with the system so it can be reviewed and accessed immediately.

Registration is also open for individuals interested in attending the 51st annual Vehicle Crimes Conference, organized by Peel Regional Police to address the rising car thefts in Mississauga and Brampton. The conference will take place from May 6 to May 9, 2024, at the Mississauga Convention Centre.