Twenty-one people were arrested and 12 vehicles recovered across South Wales as officers joined a nationwide week of action targeting organised vehicle crime.
The activity formed part of Operation Alliance, a coordinated UK-wide crackdown on organised criminal networks involved in vehicle theft and related offending.
During the operation, South Wales Police officers also recovered electronic devices used to facilitate keyless vehicle thefts, along with suspected stolen property including golf clubs and guitars.
Among the force’s results, a 39-year-old man in Swansea was arrested and charged with two vehicle theft offences, while a 27-year-old man in Cardiff was arrested and charged with four thefts from motor vehicles.
The South Wales Police activity contributed to a significant national effort involving 32 police forces and partners from across the UK. During the week-long operation, more than 100 warrants were executed, over 285 arrests were made, and 319 stolen vehicles worth an estimated £2.6 million were recovered. Police also dismantled eight so-called “chop shops” and disrupted 20 organised crime groups linked to offences including burglary, drugs and firearms.
Force vehicle crime lead Detective Chief Inspector Chris Williams said:
“This successful operation demonstrates that South Wales Police is committed to tackling vehicle crime.
“Somebody’s vehicle is usually one of their biggest investments, often their pride and joy, and for many people it is essential to everyday life. Being the victim of vehicle crime can be a traumatic experience and we fully understand the impact it can have.
“Whilst modern technology means vehicles have become safer than ever, thieves will also use technology to facilitate their offending. Additional security devices and visible deterrents, such as steering wheel locks, can be an effective way to further protect your vehicle from theft.”
Operation Alliances is funded by the Home Office and led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council, bringing together police forces and specialist partners to identify, disrupt and prosecute organised criminals involved in vehicle crime at local, regional and national levels.
Anyone with information about vehicle crime in their area is encouraged to report it to contact 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
