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(By Martin MacMahon) The Insurance Bureau of Canada says there has been a 29 per cent jump in the number of stolen vehicles in BC and a one per cent increase across the rest of Canada.

“In Abbotsford and I would suggest in the Lower Mainland, most police agencies have in fact seen significant increases and not just in theft of auto but in most property-related crimes,” explains Constable Ian MacDonald.

“Most people would think that auto theft would be a declining category particularly with more and more vehicles being factory-fitted with immobilizers and security systems. Regrettably, in some ways thieves are taking advantage of the vehicles that are out on the road that don’t have anti-theft devices.”

In a new report, it also found the Ford F-350 and F-250 models take up nine spots on its top 10 list of most frequently stolen vehicles. The other vehicle on the list is a Cadillac Escalade SUV.

“Unfortunately, it looks like the thieves have really honed in on those predominantly pre-2004 make vehicles and stealing those in great abundance now.”

“And I just want to make the point that the rumour or myth about vehicles being stolen for joyriding has hopefully gone from people’s minds. Vehicles are stolen to be used in other crimes, sometimes quite and devastating crimes like main theft, robberies and in break and enters on a regular basis.”

The insurance association says Canadian border guards are seeing shipping containers stocked with car and truck parts in an effort to fool inspectors.

They say they have recovered more than $10 million in stolen vehicles at the ports this year alone.

MacDonald suggests a few tips for making sure your ride is safe. He says you should get an anti-theft device, if you don’t already have one, lock your doors and take your valuables.