Thatcham Research warmly welcomes the Crime and Policing Act 2026, which has received Royal Assent and introduces landmark new offences targeting the possession and supply of electronic devices used in vehicle theft.

The new legislation will help tackle thefts by organised gangs, which account for most vehicle thefts in the UK, though Thatcham Research calls for an even broader industry-wide approach to tackle criminal networks.

The legislation represents a significant moment for vehicle security in the UK. It creates a new possession offence targeting electronic theft devices, enabling police to intervene where the suspect cannot prove a legitimate use and seize devices without needing to link them to a completed theft.

This increases the chances of successful prosecution for the possession of devices that very few people have legitimate use for, allowing law enforcement to disrupt organised criminal gangs.

Jonathan Hewett, chief executive, Thatcham Research, said: “This is a landmark moment, and one Thatcham Research and the wider industry have been working towards for many years. Relay attack and key emulation devices exist for one purpose: to steal vehicles. Previously, taking action against individuals caught with these tools was very difficult unless it could be linked to a specific reported crime.

“The Crime and Policing Act 2026 fundamentally changes that equation. This Act creates a new possession offence, placing the burden on the individual to demonstrate a legitimate purpose, and allowing devices to be seized before any crime is committed. We welcome this change wholeheartedly.”

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