Police urged the federal government to consider car theft a "national crisis."

As car theft has become a violent act, police have called on the federal government to create a "national program" to combat car theft.

"The nature of these car thefts has evolved into things like home invasions, car thefts and the use of illegal firearms," Peel District Police Chief Nishan Duraipa said. Peel Region has now become the center of car theft in Canada, much to the concern of Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown.

More than 150 representatives from across the Greater Toronto Area and Hamilton region, including law enforcement agencies, insurance officials, automakers and car dealers, attended the rally to address the rise in car theft.

According to Ontario Police Force data, car thefts have increased 116 percent since 2019. But in the same period of time, the police have discovered more than 15 thousand vehicles worth 545 million dollars.

However, authorities want increased enforcement and inspections of Canada's main ports, particularly in Montreal, Quebec, where police say many stolen vehicles are taken.

Last year, 7,400 cars were stolen in Peel region alone, with an average monthly theft of 617 cases.

There have also been calls for tougher penalties for car theft because there are concerns that many are part of organized crime.

According to experts, to reduce car theft, do not leave valuables that are easily visible in the vehicle and park in a place with enough light. Also, the steering wheel lock and anti-theft systems act as a deterrent. Installing security cameras and motion-sensitive lights can also be helpful.

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