Vehicles, dogs and air rifle seized as suspected chop-shop uncovered

We have seized six vehicles, an air rifle and number of puppies in Staffordshire after uncovering a suspected chop-shop in Cannock.

Officers were told about a stolen van that was in the area at about 2.15pm on Thursday (7 November) and moved in to track it down.

We later found it abandoned on Stokes Lane in Norton Canes, along with two vehicles that were confirmed to be stolen, dismantled parts from the Cannock area and tools.

Officers have seized these vehicles for forensic analysis as part of a wider investigation, as well as an air rifle.

We also called in our colleagues at Cannock Chase District Council after concerns were raised about a number of young puppies on the same site in cages. 

A 46-year-old man from Walsall and a 33-year-old man from Shrewsbury were arrested on suspicion of vehicle theft.

Both of them were questioned in custody and released on police bail while our investigation continues.

Chief Inspector Matt Walker, from the Cannock local policing team, said: “This is a substantial find that was made possible through some effective proactive policing in the local area.

“We know vehicle theft is a priority for so many members of our communities. Often, when these vehicles are stolen, they are taken to sites, dismantled, and sold on for criminal profit.

“We think some of the vehicles were stolen just days before we found them. We’ve been able to act quickly and return some of the stolen goods, including tools from businesses, to help them fulfil contract obligations.

“We’re acting on intelligence every day across Staffordshire and working with neighbouring police forces to target the organised crime groups responsible for vehicle theft, no matter where they go.”

Anyone with any information that can help with our investigation is asked to get in touch by calling 101, quoting incident 326 of 7 November, or by using Live Chat on our website.

To report anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.