Chrystia Freeland, Canada's Deputy Prime Minister, talks at a press event in Brampton, Ont., on Monday, May 20, 2024, sharing new actions the government is taking to stop car theft. (Photo: THE CANADIAN PRESS/Cole Burston)
Canada's government is stepping up its game to fight car theft. They're sharing more info between police forces and creating a team with all levels of government to tackle the issue together. The plan was revealed in Brampton, Ont., by top ministers like Chrystia Freeland and Dominic LeBlanc.
Car theft is a big deal in Canada, with an estimated 90,000 cars stolen each year. Thefts are often linked to organized crime, costing the country billions. Most cars end up in Ontario and Quebec, then shipped out via Montreal's port.
The new strategy builds on past efforts, like giving more money to border agents to spot stolen cars in shipping containers. The plan also suggests changing laws to hit car thieves harder, making it illegal to own or sell car theft tools, and involving the RCMP in training on auto theft.
They're expanding container inspections and creating a GPS tracking system for stolen cars to make things work. Since February, they've seen some progress, like better coordination between RCMP and Interpol, and more stolen cars recovered by border agents.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada likes the plan but wants it done fast. Conservatives have their own ideas, calling Trudeau's efforts a PR stunt and proposing tougher penalties for thieves.
In short, Canada's gearing up to fight car theft with better cooperation, tougher laws, and smarter tech.
