Stolen cars found in Balsall Heath chop shop raid

High-value stolen cars and scores of vehicle parts were discovered at a chop shop in Balsall Heath, Birmingham, on Tuesday (13 December).

A Specialist Vehicle Crime Taskforce acted on information that an industrial unit was being used to store and break down stolen cars.

They found three stolen vehicles - including the shell of a stripped high-performance Jaguar - which had recently been taken from across the West Midlands.

They also discovered a wide number of parts which they suspect may have been cut from other stolen vehicles, and police say these are now being forensically examined.

What has West Midlands Police said about the raid?

A spokesman for the force, said: “Enquiries around the premises are continuing and we’re in the process of seeking a closure order on them. Those found responsible for operating any chop shop will be taken to court and risk jail time.

“The warrant today was executed with the support of the local neighbourhood team and operational support unit. It formed part of Op Calibre, our week of action to tackle crime which really impacts on our neighbourhoods.

“We’re paying particular focus around robbery, burglary and vehicle crime.

“We know these crimes go to the very heart of our role to protect the public, as they have such a significant impact on victims.”