Stolen Toyota Prius crash prompts fresh warning over security for commonly targeted vehicles
- Perry Richardson
- 3 minutes ago
- 1 min read
West Midlands Police has warned Toyota Prius owners to use additional security measures after officers arrested two people following the theft of a Toyota Prius in Sparkbrook, Birmingham.
In a post shared by the force’s Roads Crime Team, officers said they spotted the stolen Prius before the driver attempted to flee. The pursuit ended shortly afterwards when the vehicle crashed. Police said: “#RoadCrimeTeam officers saw this Toyota Prius in Sparkbrook after it had been stolen. The driver made off but quickly crashed before both occupants were arrested.
“They are a very commonly stolen car, if you have one please use extra security devices.”
Images released by the force appear to show what may be a blurred private hire vehicle licence plate mounted beneath the rear registration plate.
The Toyota Prius has long been a popular choice within the taxi and private hire industry because of its reliability, fuel efficiency and hybrid drivetrain. Its widespread use has also made it a target for organised vehicle theft, with criminals often seeking valuable components or exporting stolen vehicles.
The theft serves as a reminder for taxi and private hire drivers using Prius models to consider additional theft prevention measures, including steering wheel locks, aftermarket immobilisers, tracking systems and secure parking where possible. Police continue to advise owners to remain vigilant as thefts of the model remain common.
