Overview
ABT, a well-known German car tuning company, recently experienced a significant theft at its headquarters. Thieves broke into the company’s parking area and made off with approximately €300,000 (~$318,000) worth of car parts, including wheels and brakes.
The Theft
The incident occurred late on a Sunday evening, with seven of ABT’s cars being targeted. According to Daniel Abt, the thieves were not simply opportunists looking to make a quick buck. Instead, they appeared to be highly organized, adopting a surgical approach to their operation.
Modus Operandi
They didn’t just swipe a couple of wheels and call it a day. They went full surgical mode, hacking up the cars, stealing their wheels, and even removing the expensive carbon ceramic brake discs and rotors. They even managed to cut the power supplies and lighting around the parking area, allowing them to carry out their criminal activities under the cover of darkness.
The Aftermath
A photo shared by the company’s CCO on LinkedIn shows one of ABT’s Audi RS6s sitting on bricks. While it’s unclear exactly which other cars were targeted, it’s safe to assume the thieves went for the most valuable options on the lot. Items stolen included forged wheels and carbon ceramic brakes, which are both very valuable.
Police Involvement and Security Measures
Local authorities are investigating the theft. In the meantime, ABT has acknowledged the need for improved security measures. Daniel Abt confirmed that the company would “definitely revise our security concept” in light of the thefts.
Increasing Threat of Wheel Thefts
This incident underscores the increasing threat of wheel thefts happening all around the world. Car owners with valuable wheels are advised to invest in lock nuts to dissuade would-be thieves. Another good option is to invest in front and rear-facing dash cameras that can record when the car is turned off, helping to identify any thieves.
