Police have launched a major crackdown on organised criminal gangs stripping cars for parts during Birmingham City Football Club matches. So-called 'car cannibals' have been systematically targeting vehicles left unattended by fans around St Andrew's at Knighthead Park in Small Heath.
Matchday Menace: How the Criminals Operate
These criminals specifically exploit matchdays, knowing that thousands of supporters will be attending games for several hours, leaving their vehicles vulnerable. Fans from both Birmingham City and visiting teams have returned to their cars to find them systematically stripped of valuable parts.
The stolen components are then taken to illegal 'chop shops' where they are stored before being sold on. Since the start of this year, West Midlands Police's dedicated Vehicle Crime Team has been investigating every report of this nature, leading to multiple arrests and warrants executed at suspected chop shops where stolen vehicle parts have been recovered.
Police Operation Intensifies
A new operation began on Tuesday, November 4 when Blues hosted Millwall in the Championship, with increased police patrols targeting key locations around the stadium on matchdays. The operation aims to deter and catch offenders before they can strike.
Inspector Nick Burton from the West Midlands Police Football Unit stated: "We want all football supporters across the West Midlands to feel as safe as possible and we know that getting to and from matches and leaving cars unattended can be a worry, especially during the dark winter months."
He emphasised that the force never underestimates the devastating impact that theft of car parts has on supporters' everyday lives, which is why they're stepping up efforts to catch those responsible.
Community Vigilance Crucial
Despite increased patrols and Birmingham's extensive CCTV network, police are urging the community to remain vigilant. A force spokesperson explained: "Ultimately, in dealing with this type of crime, the public are our eyes and ears and our ask is that if you spot anyone acting suspiciously near a vehicle, crouching down or wearing masks, call 999 straight away."
Birmingham Police Inspector Dan Thomas added that colleagues from across the force are working together, including dedicated local officers with unique knowledge of the city centre and immediate area around the football club.
Richard Carpenter, Director of Operations at Birmingham City FC, acknowledged the concern for supporters: "Supporters should not have to suffer the worry of whether attending a football match could result in returning to their vehicle to find it damaged or missing."
The club has worked closely with authorities and the local community to address the issue, recognising it as a potential barrier to attendance for some fans.
