Merchtem (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – BMW X5 automobile components were stolen from multiple cars of this model in both Merchtem and Asse. The thieves stole headlights together with wheels, followed by stealing an entire bumper. The thieves demonstrate complete knowledge about their illegal actions, according to Fred Scrayen of the police force.
BMW X5 vehicles from Merchtem and Asse faced theft incidents where criminals stole major car components, such as headlights, along with wheels and the entire bumper. The vehicle break-ins took place in separate locations, where two cars suffered damage in Merchtem, while the remaining car experienced a break-in at Asse-Ter-Heide.
Fred Scrayen from the AMOW police zone described the perpetrators’ work as expert, suggesting they specifically intended to steal the valuable parts.
Thieves stole parts from 3 parked BMW X5 cars in Merchtem and Asse in a short period of time.
“In the Lindestraat, near the church, and the Sint-Gudula-dreef in Hamme, 2 BMW X5 cars were broken into last night,”
Says Fred Scrayen of the AMOW police zone.
“Various parts were stolen. The headlights and other parts were stolen from one, and an entire bumper from the other.”
“Another BMW X5 was targeted a few weeks earlier on the Gentsesteenweg in Asse-Ter-Heide. The 4 wheels of the vehicle were stolen there. The vehicle was left like this. The perpetrators know exactly what they are doing. The police are investigating the case. It probably concerns thefts to order, but further investigation should provide clarity.”
Why are BMW X5 models targeted for part theft?
BMW X5 vehicles in Merchtem and Asse experience targeted part thefts, which demonstrate an increasing pattern of organised car thefts that focus on luxury vehicles. BMW X5 models face high risks of theft because their aftermarket components, including headlights and wheels, together with bumpers, attract black market demand.
Specialised criminal organisations conduct “thefts to order,” which involve stealing specific parts as per customer purchase requests. Comments from Fred Scrayen of the AMOW police zone indicate: “The perpetrators know very well what they are doing” about their targeted offences. This displays sophisticated expertise in their methods and planning.
Key component thefts affecting luxury vehicles are becoming increasingly common across different areas, where targeted vehicle parts result in immobile vehicles. Police work to determine if the stolen parts come from a widespread criminal operation.
