On average, fourteen vehicles are stolen a day in zone 8, which includes Guayaquil, Durán and Samborondón. The increase in this crime amounts to 41 percent if the first four months of 2023 are compared with the same period of the previous year.

In contrast, according to data from the National Police, two vehicles are towed a day.

Selling auto parts, not new, on social networks and in establishments is a warning that should not be ignored. Public power discovered parts in mechanical workshops that could not be justified. Conducting more frequent ex officio actions and investigations should be effective in uncovering car theft gangs.

The Guayas prosecutor’s office received 1,624 reports of vehicle theft in Zone 8 from April 1 to April 30, 2023. Last year, there were 1,150 cases during the same period.

The total number of units found this year is 195.

When should a citizen stop the vehicle at the signal of a police officer or traffic agent? This is the protocol and dress code that must be observed in order not to be a victim of crime

An even more serious problem in the theft of vehicles is that they are no longer carried out only for the purpose of selling them for parts, but they are stolen to be used for other crimes such as assassinations, kidnappings or explosive attacks. This is known to the competent authorities, who have been invited to strengthen the investigation and locating mechanisms.

Despite the traumatic experience, the police recommend that victims of robbery file a report immediately. Vehicles with a satellite locator have an advantage over others if you act in a hurry.

The increase in car theft cases is an additional sign for those who are devising plans against the security crisis: crime is diversifying its operations and they all need to be controlled. PJ agents are studying the gang’s modus operandi, the uniformed warn. Your efficiency will be appreciated and supported. The integrity of citizens is an inevitable responsibility, and this includes their property. (OR)