A surge in thefts targeting luxury sport utility vehicles, such as Toyota Land Cruisers, has prompted police and customs officials to urge owners to take preventative measures. Stolen vehicles are often illegally exported, leading authorities to call for increased vigilance.
According to the General Insurance Association of Japan, 331 insurance claims were paid for stolen Land Cruisers in 2021, rising to 450 claims in 2022 and 383 claims in 2023.
Police reported that 710 Land Cruisers were stolen in 2022, making it the most-targeted vehicle. In 2023, a total of 643 Land Cruiser thefts were reported, the second highest number following 700 thefts of Toyota's Alphard minivan.