The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is set to receive $28 million in funding from the Canadian government to combat the rising rates of vehicle theft. The investment aims to enhance the CBSA’s ability to detect and search shipping containers that are used to transport stolen vehicles overseas. The funding will be utilized for exploring new detection technology solutions, including the use of advanced analytical tools such as artificial intelligence.
Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc stated that the additional funds would enable the CBSA to strengthen its collaboration with local and provincial police partners, as well as international law enforcement agencies, to identify and pursue car thieves. This move comes ahead of an upcoming summit where cabinet ministers, law enforcement agencies, CBSA officials, representatives from ports, vehicle manufacturers, and the insurance industry will discuss strategies to counter the increasing prevalence of vehicle thefts.
According to the police, many vehicle thefts are linked to organized crime. Stolen vehicles are often placed into shipping containers and shipped overseas, particularly from terminals like the Port of Montreal. Transport Minister Pablo Rodriguez has been in talks with manufacturers to explore ways technology can be employed to make vehicles more difficult to steal, and he intends to expand upon these discussions during the summit.
Industry Minister François-Phillippe Champagne hinted at potential upcoming announcements on measures aimed at addressing devices that facilitate the theft of vehicles with modern ignition systems like key fobs. By blocking certain technologies available for purchase online, the government hopes to curtail these types of thefts.
The introduction of the funding and the upcoming summit demonstrate the Canadian government’s commitment to combatting auto theft and protecting citizens from organized crime. The investment will enable the CBSA to enhance its capabilities through the implementation of advanced detection technology and improved collaboration with law enforcement agencies. Additionally, discussions during the summit will explore ways to leverage technology and devise strategies to thwart vehicle thefts. With these initiatives, Canada aims to tackle the rising rates of auto theft and ensure the safety of its citizens.
