Criminal investigators from Bogatynia detained a 48-year-old man suspected of stealing an Opel vehicle together with its registration certificate. – The incident occurred when a 90-year-old resident of Zgorzelec County left his running car with the keys in the ignition for a moment and walked away to throw out the rubbish. The perpetrator took advantage of the situation, got into the vehicle and drove away – explains Superintendent Agnieszka Goguł, press officer for the Commander of the County Police Headquarters in Zgorzelec.

The following day, as a result of operational and procedural work, police officers established where the stolen Opel might be. They recovered the vehicle and detained the perpetrator. The spokeswoman said: – Officers established that the perpetrator had driven the vehicle despite a valid court ban and driving privileges revoked by the decision of the county governor.

The detainee was taken to the Bogatynia police station, and the recovered car was returned to its owner.

The 48-year-old has already been charged and admitted to the charges.

Police:

We remind you that stealing someone else’s property and violating a court ban are punishable by up to 5 years in prison.

How can you avoid being robbed?

  • When getting out of your vehicle, always switch off the engine, take the keys and lock the car.
  • Never leave the registration certificate, vehicle card or insurance policy in the car.
  • In cars with keyless systems, always keep the keys away from doors and windows, use a signal-blocking case or deactivate the keyless functions if the manufacturer allows it.
  • When parking, choose illuminated and monitored places.
  • Consider installing mechanical security devices, such as a steering-wheel or gearbox lock, which may discourage a thief.
  • React when you see suspicious situations, such as people loitering “without a purpose” around parked vehicles.
  • Remember that a thief often does not plan ahead; he waits for an opportunity.