Like the rest of the UK, the North East has seen an increase in the theft of motor vehicles without forcing entry or the use of the actual true key. 

This is known as ‘Relay Theft’ and normally effects vehicles that operate with keyless entry.

This means that as long as the vehicle owner has the key with them, they can get into the car and start it without pressing any buttons or touching the key.

Thieves use a device to relay the signal broadcast between the contactless key and the car. The car is tricked into thinking the key is close and unlocks the door. Typically, the relay device only needs to be within 10-15 metres of the key to work. The car will continue to run without the key until the engine is turned off.

Prevention

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Police Scotland's North East Division covers rural and urban areas in Moray, Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City.  The division has five territorial command areas which have their own dedicated Area Commander, who is responsible for the daily policing function.  Each command area is served by a number of community policing teams whose activities are built around the needs of the local community.  These teams respond to local calls and look for long term solutions to key issues.  They are assisted by the division's Crime Reduction Unit who deliver against Force and local priorities in a number of areas, including physical and social crime prevention, supporting and enhancing community engagement and creating and sustaining strong and effective partnership working.