Car thefts falls substantially, dropping 9 percent

The number of car thefts in the Netherlands dropped to 9,179 stolen vehicles last year, about 9 percent less than in 2015. The number of recovered cars also showed a slight increase, 2.1 percent, for the first time in years, the foundation for tackling vehicle crime AVC announced, ANP reports.

The number of new stolen cars, up to three years old, saw the biggest decrease at minus 27 percent. In that category the number of stolen vehicles decreased by 775.

The foundation attributes the sharp drop in stolen cars to a combination of better alarm systems and increased traceability. It is therefore increasingly difficult for criminals to steal and getaway with cars, especially newer models.

The police and insurers are also working together to tackle the trade in stolen cars, which is disrupting criminal activity.