Victoria Police have dismantled another vehicle theft operation, arresting four individuals allegedly responsible for stealing over 20 cars across Melbourne. The ring targeted high-demand vehicles, including Ford Rangers, Toyota HiLuxes, and a customized Holden Caprice, exploiting a sophisticated method of bypassing vehicle security systems.
Rising Trend of Tech-Enabled Car Theft
The thefts highlight a worrying trend: thieves are increasingly using “third-party key reprogramming devices” to access cars via the CAN bus port. This allows them to disable alarms, tracking systems, and gain complete control over the vehicle. The method mirrors a similar operation uncovered in late 2025, where thieves attempted to export stolen Toyotas from Victoria and Queensland, leading to arrests in Queensland.
This tactic underscores the need for automakers to rapidly adapt their security measures. Modern vehicles, while convenient, are vulnerable to tech-savvy criminals.
The Operation: Raids and Recovered Vehicles
Police raids in Sunbury and Wildwood resulted in the recovery of ten stolen vehicles, along with stolen number plates, tools used in the thefts (including a window breaker and electronic devices), cash, drugs, and even a Bobcat digger. The alleged ringleaders, two men from Sunbury aged 34 and 35, face 60 charges, including burglary, theft, reckless endangerment, and violating bail conditions. Two additional men from Wildwood have also been charged with handling stolen goods.
Police Advice: How to Protect Your Vehicle
Authorities are urging drivers to take preventative steps. Recommendations include using an OBD lock to prevent unauthorized access via the CAN bus port, parking off-street, and always locking vehicles, even at home. Detective Acting Senior Sergeant Joe Hartwig emphasized that the ease with which cars can now be stolen necessitates proactive security measures.
The case highlights how organized crime adapts to new technologies and exploits vulnerabilities in modern vehicle security. This latest bust underscores the ongoing battle between law enforcement and increasingly sophisticated car theft rings.
