9 Suspects Arrested In 900 Kia Engines Theft Case
Just a few days ago, it was reported that more than 900 engines from Kia’s Penukonda manufacturing plant were stolen over the span of the last five years. Now, it has been reported that 9 suspects have been arrested by the Andhra Pradesh police authorities. Of these 9, two are foreign nationals; meanwhile, the majority of the rest hail from Tamil Nadu. Presently, these 9 individuals have been sent to police custody for investigation on the matter.
Kia engine theft accused arrested
As per the police reports, a total of nine individuals have been arrested for the stealing of 900+ engines from the Kia Penukonda manufacturing facility located in Sri Sathya Sai district of Andhra Pradesh. As stated, most of these individuals belong to Andhra Pradesh. However, two of these accused are foreign nationals who used to work for Kia. Overall, a total of 30+ individuals are suspected to be involved in this organised crime.
How did these people steal 900 engines from Kia?
The Kia Penukonda manufacturing plant consists of three parts – a main assembly facility, a sub-assembly plant, and an open vehicle yard where cars are held before transport. Now, what these ex- and current employees would do is exploit the logistical weaknesses of Kia India.
These engines were stolen during inbound logistics (in transit to the plant) and from within the facility. Reportedly, these people also exploited vulnerabilities in security and logistical protocols. They moved these engines out of the manufacturing facility as scrap, using a rear exit which was officially designated for scrap material disposal.
Following this exit of the engines from the plant, they were sold illegally across multiple Indian cities including Meerut, Delhi (NCR), Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Madurai. Most likely, the buyers were not made aware that they were purchasing stolen parts, or they are a part of the racket.
Where were these engines used?
These engines, after being sold to the markets, were fitted into custom-built or salvaged chassis using locally sourced or counterfeit parts. This resulted in the creation of fully operational vehicles, which were then also illegally sold (most likely without registration). It is believed that these vehicles do not have valid insurance as well, which makes them completely untraceable.
The police authorities have highlighted that these illegal vehicles can be used by criminals and cause a threat to national security. One of the senior police officers stated, “This is extremely dangerous. These vehicles could potentially be used in criminal activities or fall into the hands of anti-social elements, posing a serious threat to national security.”
Kia's response
At the moment, Kia India has not officially issued a statement on this matter. Most likely, the company is also internally conducting an investigation to find out the weaknesses in its logistical and security measures which have led to this massive theft of valuable engines.
New cars coming
In other Kia news, the company is currently working on the development of the new Carens MPV facelift and Carens EV. Both of these models will likely be launched in the coming months. In the last few months, various test mules of these vehicles wearing camouflage have been spotted testing on public roads. The new Carens will get a revised exterior and interior. Its feature additions could include a panoramic sunroof and Level 2 ADAS.