Apple AirTag helps London couple track down stolen car after police delay: Here’s how

Apple AirTag

A London couple managed to recover their stolen Jaguar E-Pace this week thanks to a hidden Apple AirTag—after the police didn’t act quickly, even when given the car’s live location.

According to BBC News, the £46,000 SUV was stolen from outside their home in Brook Green, Hammersmith, on June 3. But luckily, the couple had tucked an AirTag inside the car, allowing them to trace it to nearby Chiswick.

When they passed the location on to the Metropolitan Police, they received what they described as a vague response. Worried they’d find only the AirTag tossed on the street—and not the car—they decided to go find it themselves.

“I wanted to act quickly,” the owner told BBC News, explaining that they informed the police of their plan. The officers didn’t stop them and simply said to call back if they needed help.

The couple located the vehicle parked on a residential street. After some issues with the car’s remote security, they successfully unlocked it and brought it home.

The police later said the investigation is still ongoing and confirmed that officers met the couple on June 10.

While the story ended well, experts warn it’s risky to take such matters into your own hands. Apple also notes that AirTags are not meant to be used as anti-theft tools.

Still, this case is another example of how AirTags are helping people find lost or stolen items—sometimes faster than the authorities.