Arrests made as detectives investigate reported series of keyless car thefts
An extensive investigation by detectives into reports of keyless car thefts across the south of England has led to a series of arrests.
Dorset Police’s Serious Organised Crime Investigation Team (SOCIT) has been leading on enquiries into the reported large-scale organised theft of around 40 keyless start vehicles between April and December 2024 with an estimated value in excess of half a million pounds.
The investigation has focused on a group reported to be responsible for stealing high value vehicles from across the south of England and exporting them overseas.
Following their detailed enquiries, 11 people have now been arrested on suspicion of vehicle theft offences. They include seven men from Bournemouth – aged 19, 24, 25, 27, 33, 34 and 38 – as well as a 32-year-old Bournemouth woman, a 25-year-old man from Portsmouth, a 37-year-old man from Romford and a 41-year-old man from Weston-Super-Mare.
All the suspects have been released on police bail or released under investigation as further enquiries are conducted.
A 38-year-old man from Bournemouth has also been interviewed by officers and released under investigation.
The most recent arrest occurred in the Avon and Somerset area and led to a subsequent search of an industrial area. This activity was supported by specialist resources including the Operational Support Unit (OSU), Neighbourhood Policing Teams (NPTs), vehicles examiners and the South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU).
The investigation team has also received support from Operation Opal, the national intelligence unit focussing on serious organised acquisitive crime.
Detective Chief Inspector Jamie Halford, of SOCIT, said: “This comprehensive investigation has been a collaborative effort across several force areas to disrupt the activities of this group reported to be involved in a widescale operation targeting keyless start vehicles.
“Our detectives are continuing to compile evidence and are already working closely with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) with a view to securing charges in this case.”
Detectives are also using this opportunity to offer advice on how to protect your keyless entry car:
- When at home keep your car key (and the spare) well away from the car.
- Put the keys in a screened or signal-blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag, and check if the bag or pouch is still working every few months.
- Reprogramme your keys if you buy a second-hand car.
- Turn off wireless signals on your fob when it's not being used.
Further crime prevention advice for vehicles owners can be found online at www.dorset.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/keeping-vehicles-safe/preventing-car-vehicle-theft/.