Car stolen in the parking lot: police warn of further crimes!

Car stolen in the parking lot: police warn of further crimes!

In the past few days there have been several incidents in and around Falkensee and Brandenburg an der Havel involving both theft and illegal activities. Particularly noticeable was the theft of a VW Bulli that was parked in the parking lot at Falkenhagener See on Friday, October 24, 2025, between 2:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. While the owner, a Potsdam resident, was about to take her dog for a walk, the vehicle was stolen unnoticed. Despite an intensive search in the area, the car remained missing, but it was included in the search and a criminal complaint was filed. This type of theft is not an isolated case - the ADAC reports that around 30 cars are stolen every day in Germany, and car theft is also a serious problem this year.

Why are high-quality cars so often targeted by thieves? According to the GDV, there were more than 14,000 stolen cars with comprehensive insurance in 2023. This particularly includes SUVs and upper mid-range models, including often sought-after Toyota models. When asked what affected car owners should do, there are clear recommendations: If the vehicle is stolen, it is important to call the police immediately and report the incident to the insurance company. It is also a good idea to inform the lessor or bank. The ADAC guidelines state that the first step for a car owner whose vehicle has been stolen is to block all personal items such as cell phones and credit cards to prevent further damage.

Additional thefts in the area

On the same day, now later in the afternoon, a theft was also reported in Dallgow-Döberitz. A woman left her purse unattended in the passenger seat of her car while she loaded up her groceries. An unknown perpetrator took the opportunity and opened the unlocked passenger door to steal the handbag, which contained a wallet and a cell phone. This incident gives food for thought and the police urge people to be careful with valuables in the car.

Burglary and other incidents

On Friday, October 24th, there was also a break-in in Brandenburg an der Havel. While the residents were away, unknown persons forced their way into an apartment on Kreyssigstrasse through the balcony door and searched the rooms for valuables. In another incident that took place just a day later, fishing equipment worth a low four-figure amount was stolen from a basement compartment on Jahnstrasse. Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward to assist with the investigation.

Among the nightly activities, an illegal car race was reported in Schönwalde on Sunday, October 26th. A 21-year-old BMW driver ignored the police stop signal and fled at excessive speed. Investigations revealed that drug use was suspected, which is why a blood sample was taken and his driver's license was temporarily confiscated.

The growing phenomenon of car thefts and burglaries is becoming an increasing concern in Germany. The GDV notes that the police provide information on how to protect against frequent thefts, while insurance companies provide large sums of money every year to settle such damage. Whether as a car owner, rental car user or simply as a passerby - presence and caution are particularly important in these times.

It is painful for those affected not only because they lose their property, but also because behind every theft there is a story of loss and uncertainty. It is to be hoped that the police and local residents will remain vigilant and work together to combat these criminal activities.

In this context, it is important to always find out about your own insurance benefits and to act decisively if you suspect theft - because when a car is stolen, every minute counts.

For more information and tips on car theft, you can visit the following links: Rathenow24, ADAC, and GDV.