'Significant arrest' after chop shop inquiry raid
West Midlands Police used a chainsaw to enter a unit in Bordesley Green
West Midlands Police has said a significant arrest was made in Birmingham, during a raid on a suspected “chop shop.”
The force executed two warrants on Wednesday morning in Bordesley Green, one at a business unit and another at a home.
Officers gained entry to the business using a chainsaw, and discovered piles of car parts which will be investigated by a specialist vehicle examiner.
Det Supt Jim Munro said the arrest, made at a different address, resulted in further searches and the individual would be interviewed later on Wednesday.
Piles of car parts were discovered, which will be investigated by a specialist examiner
Chop shops are illegal garages where stolen cars are stripped for parts, which are then sold on or used to repair other stolen vehicles.
The investigation is part of the force’s mission to tackle vehicle crime in the West Midlands, which it said was a particular priority in Birmingham.
“We’ve seen a 12% reduction in vehicle crime over the last 12 months,” said Det Supt Munro.
“We’re continuing to focus on arresting and putting people before the courts.”
“In March this year, we arrested well over 200 people in relation to vehicle crime offending,” he added.
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