'Super charged car crime crackdown' across the West Midlands
Almost 300 stolen vehicles were recovered - worth more than £3 million
What's been described as a 'super-charged car crime crackdown' has seen almost 300 stolen vehicles being recovered - worth more than £3 million.
Op Vantor has been funded by Police and Crime Commissioner Simon Foster.
It first started in May 2024 in a bid to combat a spike in vehicle thefts up and down the West Midlands.
Data showed a 35 per cent rise in cars being stolen between 2021 and 2023.
Car crime has since gone down by 10 per cent.
In January, PCC Simon Foster made a five-figure investment to support West Midlands Police’s efforts to detect and reduce vehicle thefts and to ensure safety and security for people, families and businesses locally.
Over the period of more than 35 days, police say the PCC’s funding boost directly resulted in the recovery of 58 stolen cars.
The combined market value of the vehicles was over £1 million, which included a high-profile Porsche 911 GT3 valued at £140,000.
PCC Simon Foster said: “Operation Vantor exemplifies my commitment to drive down vehicle crime and to protect our communities.
“The results achieved by the team, demonstrate the effectiveness of targeted operations and the importance of continued investment in crime prevention and detection initiatives.”
Officers continue to use a range of tactics to track, identify and recover stolen vehicles. This includes the use of advanced surveillance technology, such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition systems.
The team also conduct targeted patrols in high-risk areas and collaborate closely with other law enforcement agencies, to share intelligence and resources.
Additionally, community engagement continues to play a crucial role, with officers working to raise awareness about vehicle theft prevention and encouraging the public to report suspicious activities.
Superintendent Gareth Mason, Head of the Roads Policing Unit at West Midlands Police, praised the recent success of the operation.
He said: “The work carried out by Operation Vantor is crucial in our efforts to combat vehicle theft.
"The recovery of these stolen vehicles not only disrupts criminal activity but also provides reassurance to the public that we are actively working to keep our roads safe.”
For advice about keeping vehicles safe, follow West Midlands Police’s nine-point guide here.