If you have a newer model Lexus RX350, you are being urged to lock it up.

The remote thefts of high-end vehicles are spreading across the country as sophisticated car thieves reprogram key fobs to steal your expensive ride without breaking into a home or stealing your key.

Halton Regional Police on August 19 arrested a Quebec man in connection with the recent thefts of high-end Lexus and other luxury cars in the affluent Oakville area.

“Officers observed a white Nissan Rogue SUV travelling in tandem with a 2020 Lexus RX350 in the area of Trafalgar Road and Dundas Street,” according to a police release.

Police said the newer model Lexus was being stolen when they began following the vehicles.

“After a short time the two vehicles split up,” according to a police report. “Officers conducted a traffic stop on the Nissan Rogue.”

As a result, a suspect was arrested and found to be in possession of seven blank Lexus key fobs, which detectives said, help ‘facilitate the theft of high-end Lexus motor vehicles.”

Police said the Lexus was stolen earlier in the day. It was found abandoned in a residential area and returned to the registered owner.

Luis Ahumada Prieto, 42, of Quebec, has been charged with seven counts of possession of automobile master key and possession of a schedule 1 substance.

He was released on an undertaking.

To avoid vehicle thefts, police are warning owners to park their vehicles in a locked and secure garage; install an on-board diagnostic blocker or a steering vehicle lock device; obtain an after-market GPS tracking device; place fob in a radio frequency shielding bag when not in use; always lock your vehicle and equip with an alarm or security camera.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Halton police at 905-825-4777 ext. 2216.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.