Jail terms for car cannibals who targeted football fans
Two men who bragged on social media about stripping car parts from vehicles, including those of Birmingham City FC supporters, have been sentenced to four years and three months in prison. Mohammed Khan and Mohammed Haydar, both 23, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to steal from motor vehicles at Birmingham Crown Court.
The pair targeted nearly 100 vehicles across the West Midlands between December 2022 and October 2024. They would remove headlights, bumpers, mirrors, and bonnets within minutes, often near St Andrew's at Knighthead Park, the home ground of Birmingham City FC, on matchdays.
Victim impact and club statement
A victim personal statement read out on behalf of Birmingham City FC highlighted an 'identified increase in reports of vehicle cannibalisation occurring in areas surrounding Birmingham City FC fixtures.' The statement noted that '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.'
The statement also warned that the offences had the 'potential to negatively affect public confidence in attending football fixtures' and could 'damage the reputation of the local area as a safe and welcoming environment for supporters.' It added that 'vehicle crime contributes to fear of crime amongst residents and businesses operating in the vicinity of the stadium.'
Police investigation and social media bragging
West Midlands Police investigated the duo for over three years, reviewing hundreds of hours of CCTV footage and conducting forensic examinations. Officers executed multiple warrants at their home addresses before arresting them. Khan admitted all 98 offences, while Haydar pleaded guilty to 20.
According to police, the defendants filmed themselves carrying out the thefts and posted the videos on social media, posing with bumpers and bragging about their exploits.
Court sentencing and police comment
On Friday, June 26, both men were jailed for four years and three months. DC Choudhury, who led the investigation, said: 'Both Haydar and Khan were meticulous in their offending. 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.'
Ongoing police presence and partnership
The victim personal statement noted that West Midlands Police maintain a 'visible presence' around the Blues' home ground on matchdays to deter offenders and reassure supporters. The force continues to work with Birmingham City FC, local authorities, and car park operators to share intelligence and implement crime prevention measures. Birmingham City FC also highlighted the role of match-day stewards in communicating with supporters to help identify problems.
