Two men have been arrested following a significant police operation that uncovered a large quantity of suspected stolen car parts stored in shipping containers. The arrests occurred after officers from the proactive crime-fighting team, Operation Skybridge, conducted a series of targeted searches.
Initial Vehicle Stop Leads to Major Discovery
The investigation began when Operation Skybridge officers stopped a suspicious vehicle on Wyndhurst Road in the Shard End area of Birmingham on Tuesday, January 27. This initial intervention proved crucial, as it was discovered that a man inside the vehicle was wanted by police in connection with suspected robbery and burglary offences. He was promptly detained at the scene.
Search Uncovers Stolen Goods Haul
Following this detention, police pursued further enquiries which led them to an address in Worcester. During a search of the premises, officers made a substantial discovery: two large shipping containers filled with what are believed to be stolen car parts. The haul represents a significant find in the fight against vehicle crime and organised theft in the region.
In an official statement, West Midlands Police confirmed the operation's success, stating: "We’ve recovered a haul of suspected stolen car parts after discovering them stored in large shipping containers. It came after officers from Operation Skybridge initially stopped a suspicious vehicle."
Details of the Arrests
The police have confirmed the arrests of two men in connection with the discovery:
- A 49-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of robbery, burglary, and handling stolen goods. He remains in police custody for questioning.
- A 60-year-old man has also been detained on suspicion of handling stolen goods and is awaiting interrogation by officers.
Focus of Operation Skybridge
Operation Skybridge is a dedicated Birmingham-based police unit currently deployed in the Shard End area. The team's primary focus is on proactively tackling a range of serious offences, including theft, burglary, robbery, and vehicle crime. This latest operation demonstrates their ongoing commitment to disrupting criminal networks and recovering stolen property.
The discovery of the car parts in shipping containers suggests a potential link to larger-scale organised crime operations, which often use such methods to store and transport illicit goods. Police investigations are continuing as officers work to determine the full extent of the criminal activity and identify any further individuals involved.
