Officers reassure community after attempted car-jacking

Officers in South Staffordshire are reassuring the community after offenders travelling in a vehicle with blue flashing lights attempted to steal a car yesterday (Thursday 18 March).

Police were called following the incident where a woman, the driver and sole occupant of a blue BMW, reported that she had been pulled over by the occupants of a dark-coloured BMW 1 series after spotting flashing blue lights on the windscreen.

She was travelling from Hednesford towards Penkridge when she pulled over between Pottal Pool Road and Broadhurst Green at 7.45pm.

The victim assumed that the vehicle was an unmarked police car due to the blue lights and once stationary, wound down her window to speak the occupants of the BMW 1.

One of the occupants, a white male wearing a cap, approached the victim and punched her in the face before attempting to steal her car keys (pictured below).

Then another suspect, an Asian male, approached the passenger side of the victim’s vehicle and attempted to get inside.

Thankfully, the doors of the victim’s car was locked and she was able to drive away to a place of safety.

The victim sustained facial bruising and remains shaken following the incident.

Detective Inspector Neil Poultney of Staffordshire Police’s criminal investigations department, said: “This is a shocking attempted car theft and has left the victim understandably concerned for her safety.

“Thankfully, she kept her car doors locked and was able to drive away from the scene.

“I would like to reassure the community that we believe this is an isolated incident.

“However, officers, including road policing officers, will be increasing patrols in the local area and reviewing CCTV and dashcam footage of the area at the time of the attempted theft.

“Anyone who may have seen what happened or thinks they may have relevant footage or information relating to this incident is asked to get in touch with us as soon as possible.”

Contact Staffordshire Police on Facebook, Twitter, or call 101, quoting incident number 681 of 17 March.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

If you are concerned about what to do when you think police are signalling you to pull over, remember:

- Stop in a public place like a petrol or service station, if you can

- Keep your doors locked and ask to see officers’ warrant card to confirm their identity

- Call 101 to check officers’ identity if you are unsure.

For more information, visit: How to check an officer's identity | Staffordshire Police