Men jailed for car stripping offences across the West Midlands
Duo sentenced for their involvement in car cannibalism crimes
Last updated 27th Jun 2026
Two men have been sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court for their involvement in a large-scale car stripping operation in the West Midlands.
Mohammed Khan and Mohammed Haydar, both 23, received custodial sentences of four years and three months for their roles in the crime.
They faced charges of conspiracy to steal from motor vehicles and were found to have committed car stripping offences from December 2022 to October 2024.
These offences, often referred to as 'car cannibalism,' involved approaching parked cars to dismantle and steal components such as headlights, bumpers, mirrors, and bonnets in minutes.
The thefts inconvenienced car owners greatly, disrupting everyday activities as vehicles were left immobile and damaged.
A statement relating to an ongoing partnership operation between Birmingham City and West Midlands Police was read in court, detailing the impact these offences have had on local football fixtures.
"There has been an identified increase in reports of vehicle cannibalisation occurring in areas surrounding Birmingham City FC fixtures," said the statement.
"Offenders are targeting vehicles parked by supporters and visitors attending matches, removing valuable components and parts before leaving the vehicles immobilised."
"Victims often return following the match to discover significant damage and theft, resulting in substantial financial loss, inconvenience, recovery costs, insurance implications, and considerable distress."
Investigation and Arrest
West Midlands Police have long been investigating Khan and Haydar, conducting multiple warrants and arrests over three years.
Their Vehicle Crime Team meticulously reviewed CCTV footage and forensic evidence, identifying the men as the culprits.
It emerged that Khan and Haydar filmed and posted their acts on social media, boasting about the thefts.
DC Choudhury, who led the investigation, commented on the detailed planning behind each offence.
"Both Haydar and Khan were meticulous in their offending," DC Choudhury said.
"They carefully planned each theft that they carried out, where they would cause serious distress to their victims who were left with vehicles without parts."
"Thankfully, we have been able to put together an extensive investigation which found both Haydar and Khan carried out almost 100 cannibalism offences, and now they will be spending time behind bars."