Auto-Theft in Manitoba > Challenges
Over the last two decades, Manitoba has struggled to reverse a rapid rise in auto theft. In 2004 about 30 vehicles were stolen every day in Manitoba. More than 80 per cent of them were in Winnipeg.
This high theft rate had a price.
In 2004, thefts and attempted thefts cost Manitobans roughly $43 million in insurance claims. That adds about five per cent to everyone’s annual Autopac premium.
Manitoba’s auto theft problem is unique
In other parts of Canada, newer, more expensive vehicles are stolen for profit by career criminals. In Manitoba, auto theft continues to be a crime of opportunity that’s difficult to combat through law enforcement alone. Winnipeg police also report stolen vehicles are being used in other crimes.
- High risk vehicles
Some vehicles are easier to steal than others. Manitoba Public Insurance identified those in our Most at Risk (MaR) list and owners may be required to immobilize these vehicles.
Many of these vehicles are older and their owners may not think they are worth protecting from a financial point of view. However, with a reckless auto thief behind the wheel, any stolen vehicle can lead to tragedy, and the use of a stolen vehicle may lead to increases in other crimes. That's why Manitoba Public Insurance is taking steps to protect these vehicles from theft.
