Federal government teams with INTERPOL to combat auto theft in Canada

Ontario’s auto theft crisis is receiving major support, as the federal government is teaming with INTERPOL to combat the ongoing national crime trend.

In a statement released today (Nov. 25), the federal Minister of Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic LeBlanc announced a $3.5-million initiative with INTERPOL to combat intercontinental organized vehicle crime.

Dubbed Project “Drive Out,” this three-year-long global incentive will monitor the export of stolen vehicles trickling out from Canada.

Further information also noted that the project enhances information sharing between global law enforcement agencies to help identify stolen vehicles and spare parts globally — and then return them to Canada.

“Auto theft is a crime that knows no borders. That’s why continued collaboration between domestic and international law enforcement partners like INTERPOL is key to recovering Canadians’ stolen property and to disrupting the organized crime groups involved, LeBlanc stated alongside the announcement.

Federal authorities announced a $15-million cash injection earlier this year to combat auto theft (home and abroad) through the Contribution Program to Combat Serious and Organized Crime (CPCSOC).

Today’s announcement of the “Drive Out” program is part of that initial funding drive.

According to the Government of Canada, auto theft claims are already down 19 per cent.

Despite this progress, there is always more work to be done, as Secretary General for INTERPOL Valdecy Urquiza stated “This partnership with the Government of Canada represents a step forward, empowering law enforcement across the globe to strike at the heart of a crime that reaches far beyond a single theft. Together, we’re building a safer world.”