Police officers have uncovered a suspected chop shop in the West Midlands, where vehicles reported stolen from across the region were found partially dismantled.
Patrol Leads to Church Street Discovery
The discovery was made on Sunday, 18 January 2026, after officers on a routine patrol in Lye, near Stourbridge, noticed a car linked to criminal activity. It was parked next to a yard on Church Street, prompting a closer inspection.
Inside the premises, police found a scene of systematic stripping. Several vehicles, believed to have been stolen from various locations around the Midlands and beyond, were in the process of being broken down for parts.
Vehicles Found Partially Dismantled
The inventory of cars found at the site included a black Nissan Navara and an Audi S3, both of which had multiple components removed. A Mini was also identified amongst the debris in the yard. In some cases, critical parts of the engines had already been taken out.
Following the find, a 46-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of handling stolen goods. He has since been released on bail pending further enquiries as the investigation continues.
Appeal for Information from Public
West Midlands Police is urging anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward. The force has asked the public to reference incident number 1259 of 18 January when making contact.
People can provide information by:
- Calling the non-emergency number 101.
- Using the live chat function on the force's website at www.west-midlands.police.uk.
- Contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
The bust highlights the ongoing issue of organised vehicle crime in the region, where stolen cars are rapidly dismantled in illicit chop shops to sell parts on the black market.
