The Auto Theft Unit is seeing a rise in the number of Kia and Hyundai vehicles that are being stolen. The increase is also a nationwide problem and has become a trend on social media platforms. Videos of “Kia Boyz” stealing vehicles and filming themselves driving recklessly, weaving in and out of traffic, and narrowly missing other vehicles are being posted to TikTok and other sites.
The targeted vehicles appear to be mainly 2011 or newer Kia vehicles and 2015 or newer Hyundai vehicles. Kia and Hyundai vehicles are being targeted as they are easier to steal than other manufacturers. Omaha has seen an 80% percent increase in stolen Kia and Hyundai vehicles as compared to 2020 and 2021 through the first 7 months of 2022.
The Omaha Police department is recommending Kia and Hyundai owners as well as all vehicle owners be aware...
1. Lock your doors
2. Remove your keys from the vehicle
3. Do not leave a spare key near your vehicle
4. Close the windows
5. Park in well-lit areas
6. Install an audible alarm system and anti-theft device
7. Install a vehicle immobilizer system
8. Install a tracking system
Please report any suspicious activity in neighborhoods, parking lots, or apartment complexes to 911.
Original source can be found here.
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