Increase in motor theft incidents in Mayo - report

OUTsurance, the Irish based car insurance company, has issued guidance to vehicle owners in Mayo about the increasing risks of motor theft across the country.

It comes as the Central Statistics Office (CSO) revealed that four motor thefts were reported in the Mayo Garda Division in the second quarter of 2024, which was an increase of one incident compared to the first quarter of this year.

A total of 4,037 motor theft and related offences were reported nationally in the first two quarters of 2024.

Up to 7,638 motor thefts were reported in 2023, with 5,000 of those vehicles being cars - making it the worst year for car thefts in more than a decade. With the half-year 2024 figures on track to surpass the 2023 numbers, it is expected that 2024 will be the worst year for motor theft in recent history.

To date in 2024, the primary areas for motor theft incidents across Ireland include Dublin, making up a sizeable proportion with 2,185 vehicles stolen, followed by 405 in Cork and 312 in Limerick.

These areas were also the top three regions for motor theft throughout 2023.

Commenting on the data, Ian Kennedy OUTsurance Ireland CMO, said: “Irish motorists need to be increasingly vigilant and ensure they are not the next motor theft victim.

"With the latest data already surpassing 2023’s half-year figures, we are on track for the worst year in over a decade for vehicle thefts."