High-Tech Car Theft: A Nighttime Heist
A Mercedes S Class valued at £44,000 was stolen from a homeowner’s driveway by two clever thieves utilizing advanced technology. The incident reflects a growing trend of car thefts involving sophisticated gadgets.
Signal Relay Devices in Action
The burglars employed a signal relay device in the dead of night, successfully bypassing the vehicle’s security system to steal the car. This method highlights the vulnerabilities in keyless technology, which has become increasingly common in modern vehicles.
Eyewitness Accounts and Surveillance Evidence
Doorbell surveillance footage revealed an intriguing scene: while one suspect approached the house, the other waited by the vehicle. The entire theft unfolded in just 12 minutes, showcasing their efficiency.
Quick Response from Law Enforcement
Thanks to the large engine noise emitted during the theft, the homeowner was alerted and promptly called the police at 2:30 AM on April 7, 2025. The quick response from Norfolk Constabulary led to the arrest of the suspects merely 12 minutes later, where one suspect was still wearing a balaclava.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
Upon stopping the thieves, officers found the signal relay device alongside a GPS jammer still active in the vehicle. Mindaugas Grizas, 36, and Lukas Zvirgzdys, 18, were arrested and charged with several offenses, including stealing the car and interfering with wireless telegraphy.
Sentencing and Legal Consequences
The two men appeared in court shortly after their arrest, with Grizas receiving a sentence of one year and four months in prison, along with a two-year driving ban. Zvirgzdys was sentenced to one year in prison, suspended for 18 months, and was also ordered to complete 200 hours of community service.
Expert Advice on Vehicle Security
Sergeant Gary Morris from Norfolk Police’s Breckland District Crime Unit emphasized the importance of safeguarding vehicles against such theft tactics. He advised vehicle owners to invest in a Faraday box or pouch, which can block signals from key fobs, preventing them from being intercepted by thieves.
Conclusion: Protecting Against Smart Theft Tactics
As keyless technology becomes standard in many vehicles, understanding the risks and implementing protective measures is essential for car owners. Staying informed and proactive can help prevent becoming a victim of high-tech car theft.
High-Tech Car Theft: A £44,000 Mercedes Stolen in Norfolk
By Jordana Seal
Published: 04:25 EDT, 16 May 2025 | Updated: 04:48 EDT, 16 May 2025
Nighttime Heist: The Theft Unfolds
In a brazen act of theft, a £44,000 Mercedes S Class was stolen from the driveway of its owner in the dead of night. The crime was executed with alarming sophistication by two thieves using advanced signal relay technology.
How the Theft Was Executed
The thieves gained access to the vehicle by exploiting its keyless entry system. Surveillance footage captured one suspect approaching the house while the other stood by the car, making for a swift getaway.
Timely Response from Authorities
The incident took place on April 7, 2025, at approximately 2:30 AM. The vehicle owner, alerted by the sound of the engine, immediately contacted the police from their home in Breckland, near Norwich, Norfolk.
Police Intervention and Arrest
Police from Norfolk Constabulary were quick to respond, intercepting the stolen vehicle just 12 minutes after the theft. Upon stopping the car, officers discovered one of the suspects still wearing a balaclava.
Charges and Legal Consequences
The two individuals, Mindaugas Grizas, 36, and Lukas Zvirgzdys, 18, were promptly arrested on multiple charges, including vehicle theft and using devices to interfere with wireless telegraphy. Grizas faced additional charges for driving without insurance and while disqualified.
Sentencing Outcomes
Both suspects eventually appeared in Norwich Crown Court. Grizas was sentenced to one year and four months in prison, along with a two-year driving ban. Zvirgzdys received a one-year jail term, suspended for 18 months, and was ordered to complete 200 hours of community service.
Protecting Yourself Against Keyless Technology Threats
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerabilities presented by keyless technology in modern vehicles. Experts advise car owners to consider purchasing a Faraday pouch or box to protect their key fobs. These inexpensive items block signals, preventing thieves from accessing your vehicle.
