Police work to tackle vehicle crime across the West Midlands
Officers say they continue to make arrests and gather intelligence in vehicle crime hotspots
West Midlands Police say work continues to tackle vehicle crime right across the region - by making arrests, gathering intelligence, and patrolling key hotspots.
In one incident, two men have been bailed with strict conditions - as enquiries continue after a vehicle was stolen in Smethwick earlier this week.
It's reported the vehicle was stolen from an address on Francis Road, Smethwick in the early hours of May 2nd without keys.
Warwickshire Police spotted the stolen vehicle being driven on M1 near Watford Gap Services on Friday (May 3rd), and stopped it - arresting two men in their 40s on suspicion of vehicle theft.
Over in Walsall, police say there's been a recent 'spate' of thefts of Ford Focuses.
They have revealed three of these vehicles were taken overnight in Pelsall, Short Heath and Willenhall South, with two being keyless thefts.
Another Focus in Pelsall was tampered with where four men were seen but they failed to gain entry to the car.
In Dudley a motorbike was stolen from a shed in Woodsetton and a trailer was stolen in Pensnett, but was later recovered.
In a statement, officers said: "Vehicle crime is a priority for us in the West Midlands and officers are patrolling hotspots, gathering intelligence, investigating vehicle crime and making arrests.
"In March we made the highest number of arrests for vehicle crime in five years and we will continue to focus on tracking down potential offenders.
"During the last 12 months we have seen a 12 per cent decrease in vehicle crime in the force area as we continue to invest in ANPR technology and additional road crime resources.
"We understand the impact vehicle crime has on the public and you can take some simple steps to secure you vehicle.
"The best way to protect your vehicle, and valuables, is to layer up your security."
For crime prevention advice, you can visit the West Midlands Police website.
If your vehicle is stolen or has been broken into, never put yourself at risk.
Call police immediately on 999 if you see the crime happening.