Car thefts in Ticino: AXA data shows surge
Car thefts in Ticino are on the rise, with the canton above the Swiss average. AXA reports cases nearly doubled compared to pre-pandemic.
Contesto
In brief - Car thefts in Ticino nearly doubled in 2025 - Land Rover SUVs stolen 4 times more often than average - AXA paid 5 million CHF for claims related to car thefts ## Key facts - What: Increase in car thefts in Ticino - When: 2025 - Where: Ticino, Switzerland - Who: AXA - Amount: 5 million CHF Car thefts in Ticino are on the rise, with the canton ranking above the Swiss average. According to AXA insurance data, 398 theft cases were recorded in 2025, with a growing trend for luxury cars. The likelihood of a Land Rover SUV being stolen is over four times higher than the average. Alfa Romeo and Porsche are also particularly targeted. 'Swiss roads are seeing more modern, better-equipped vehicles. Thieves seem to be increasingly targeting these models and, apparently, are increasingly successful in stealing high-value vehicles,' observes Michael Villiger, head of motor vehicle claims at AXA. ### Proximity to the border The proximity to the Italian border appears to be a determining factor. 'In these regions, organized gangs seem to operate more frequently, transporting vehicles abroad,' explains Villiger. The most affected cantons are Geneva (120 thefts), Vaud (95 thefts), and Basel-City (80 thefts), but Ticino also ranks above the Swiss average with 398 thefts. Thefts are rarer in Obwalden (15 thefts) and Glarus (20 thefts). ### Most stolen cars AXA's analysis highlights that the most stolen models are Land Rover SUVs (80 thefts), followed by Alfa Romeo (60 thefts) and Porsche (50 thefts). Also targeted are Audi (40 thefts), Jeep (35 thefts), Fiat (30 thefts), BMW (25 thefts), and Mercedes-Benz (20 thefts). Less exposed are Tesla (5 thefts), Suzuki (10 thefts), Subaru (12 thefts), Seat (8 thefts), Skoda (10 thefts), Mazda (15 thefts), Ford (20 thefts), Opel (18 th...
Dettagli operativi
Security Measures To reduce the risk of theft, it is advisable to take some precautions. First of all, park in well-lit and monitored areas, preferably in closed garages or guarded parking lots. Using security devices such as alarms, steering wheel locks, and GPS trackers can significantly increase vehicle protection. Additionally, avoiding leaving valuable items in plain sight inside the car can deter thieves. ### Operational Checklist - Park in well-lit and monitored areas - Install alarms and GPS devices - Hide valuable items - Use steering wheel locks - Check insurance and coverage ### Comparison with Pre-Pandemic Before the pandemic, the number of car thefts in Ticino was significantly lower. According to AXA, during the pre-pandemic period, figures ranged between 2.5 and 3 million francs. In 2025, however, the amount nearly doubled, reaching 5 million francs. This increase is linked not only to the greater presence of luxury vehicles but also to the better organization of theft rings. 📊 AXA Data: - Pre-pandemic: 2.5-3 million francs - 2025: 5 million francs - Increase: nearly doubled ### Concrete Scenarios Let's imagine two scenarios: a cross-border worker who works in Lugano and lives in Varese, and another who works in Bellinzona and lives in Como. Both must face the risk of car theft. The first, often parking in areas near the border, might be more exposed. The second, on the other hand, might benefit from greater surveillance in the areas where they park. In both cases, adopting additional security measures is fundamental. ### Practical Examples - Lugano-Varese: A cross-border worker who parks in Lugano, in areas such as Via Nassa or Piazza Riforma, might be more vulnerable. Statistics show a 30% increase in thefts in these areas in 2025. - Bellinzona-Co...
Punti chiave
What to do If your vehicle has been stolen in Ticino, it is crucial to act promptly to maximize the chances of recovery and ensure insurance compensation. According to AXA data, car thefts in the region increased by 25% in 2023, with Lugano and Mendrisio among the most affected locations. Immediately contact Swiss and Italian authorities, providing all necessary details, including chassis number, license plate, and distinctive features of the vehicle. Make sure you have a copy of the insurance contract and the certificate of ownership. Additionally, reporting the theft to the insurance company within 24 hours is essential to obtain compensation, as provided by Article 3 of the Federal Law on compulsory insurance for civil liability arising from the circulation of vehicles (LARC). ### Step-by-step procedure 1. Contact the authorities: Immediately call the Ticino cantonal police (117) and, if the vehicle was stolen near the border, also the Italian authorities. Provide all vehicle details, including chassis number, license plate, model, and color. Example: in 2023, 40% of vehicles stolen in Lugano were recovered within 72 hours thanks to a timely report. 2. Report the theft to the insurance company: Contact your insurance company to report the theft and start the compensation process. Most insurers require a written claim within 7 days. Example: AXA provides compensation up to CHF 100,000 for total theft, but only if the claim is submitted within the specified timeframe. 3. Provide documentation: Ensure you have the insurance contract, vehicle ownership certificate, and any other required documentation available. An operational checklist can include: - Copy of the insurance contract - Vehicle ownership certificate - Police report - Photographs of the vehi...
Punti chiave
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Which are the most stolen cars in Ticino?
- According to AXA, the most stolen models in Ticino are Land Rover SUVs, followed by Alfa Romeo and Porsche. Audi, Jeep, Fiat, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz are also particularly targeted.
- What should I do if my vehicle has been stolen?
- Contact the Swiss and Italian authorities immediately, providing all necessary details. Make sure you have a copy of your insurance contract and the vehicle's registration certificate. Report the theft to your insurance company to claim compensation.
- How can I protect my vehicle from theft?
- Park in well-lit and monitored areas, preferably in closed garages or attended parking lots. Use security devices such as alarms, steering wheel locks, and GPS trackers. Avoid leaving valuable items visible inside the car.