Arrests made as business given three-month closure order
It's after the discovery of millions of pounds' worth of stolen cars and car parts
Two people have been arrested and a closure order has been secured, for a Telford business, after the discovery of millions of pounds' worth of stolen cars and car parts.
After intelligence and an initial investigation, officers suspected that Daytona Performance Shropshire Ltd and Global Engine Parts UK Ltd, were linked to fraud offences, theft of motor vehicles and theft from motor vehicles.
Members of the public reported to police that when they were taking their cars there for services, they would be faced with higher bills to pay, or simply not have their vehicles returned at all.
On Tuesday (8 September), officers executed a warrant at the business on Stafford Park 6, where they discovered cars and car parts estimated to be worth millions of pounds. No arrests were made during the warrant.
Officers then applied for a closure order, under Section 80 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, which was granted at Telford Magistrates Court , on Thursday (10 September).
The closure order means the business cannot now run from Unit 12-13C, Kendall Business Park, on Stafford Park 6, for three months. The owners of the business are also not allowed to attend the property.
Today (Monday 14 September), officers have arrested two men, aged 53 and 63, on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, and handling stolen goods. They both remain in police custody.
Detective Constable Hulme, from Telford’s Proactive CID, said: "This closure order is a significant step, in protecting the public and disrupting suspected criminal activity, in Telford.
"Following intelligence and reports, received from members of the public, officers carried out a thorough investigation, which led to this warrant being executed.
"The discovery of a substantial quantity of vehicles and vehicle parts, resulted in two men being arrested, on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and handling stolen goods. Our inquiries remain ongoing, to identify anyone who may be involved in criminality and bringing them to justice.
"We hope this action reassures the community, that we will act on information provided to us and will use all available powers, to tackle suspected offending and protect local residents and businesses."
Anyone who believes they may have been affected, is asked to contact officers, by emailing [email protected] quoting their vehicle registration number and any crime reference number, if the matter has previously been reported to police. Please include your contact details.