A new report by the Association of Kenyan Insurers (AKI) has revealed that Toyota remains the most frequently stolen car brand in Kenya, with station wagons topping the list of the most targeted vehicle types.
The 2024 data indicates that 54.91% of all stolen vehicles were Toyotas, making them the preferred target for car thieves. Other high-risk brands include Isuzu (12.88%), Mazda (7.06%), Nissan (5.83%), and Mitsubishi (3.99%).
In total, 327 vehicles were reported stolen in 2024, marking a notable 28% decrease from the 419 thefts recorded in 2023. While this decline suggests improved security measures, the recovery rate remains alarmingly low at just 15.92%.
According to the report, station wagons accounted for a staggering 67.80% of all stolen vehicles, making them the most vulnerable body type. Lorries followed at 11.46%, with saloons (6.81%) and pick-ups (3.72%) also featuring in the list of commonly targeted vehicles.
Vehicle registration numbers were another major factor, with those beginning with ‘KDs’ being the most stolen at 50.15%, followed by KCs (35.17%), KBs (10.40%), and KAs (1.83%).
The data further revealed that white vehicles were the most stolen, accounting for 39.80% of cases, followed by silver (16.72%) and black (15.38%).
Regarding the value of stolen vehicles, those insured for less than Sh1 million accounted for the highest percentage at 32.52%. Vehicles valued between Sh1 million and Sh2 million made up 26.07% of cases, while those worth over Sh3 million represented 27.3%. The most expensive stolen vehicle in 2024 was a Mitsubishi lorry valued at Sh12.2 million.
Despite the reduction in theft cases, the low recovery rate remains a concern. AKI suggests that improved tracking systems, increased vigilance, and collaboration between law enforcement agencies and insurance companies could help curb vehicle theft and enhance recovery efforts.
Vehicle owners are advised to invest in anti-theft measures such as GPS trackers, steering locks, and secure parking facilities to reduce the risk of theft.
