Telford police shut down car business amid discovery of 'millions' in stolen parts and vehicles
The closure means the business cannot operate from the premises for three months
A closure order has been secured for a Telford business, following the discovery of what police say are millions of pounds worth of stolen cars and car parts.
West Mercia Police said that officers had been investigating Daytona Performance Shropshire Ltd and Global Engine Parts UK Ltd over allegations of fraud offences, theft of motor vehicles and theft from motor vehicles.
A statement from the force said: “Members of the public reported to police that when they were taking their cars there for services, they would be faced with higher bills to pay, or simply not have their vehicles returned at all.”
Police said that on Tuesday - September 8, officers executed a warrant at the business on Stafford Park 6, where they discovered “cars and car parts estimated to be worth millions of pounds”.
They added that no arrests were made during the warrant.
Police said officers then applied for a closure order under Section 80 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, which was granted at Telford Magistrates Court on Thursday - 10 September 10.
A spokesman for the force said: “The closure order means the business cannot now run from Unit 12-13C, Kendall Business Park on Stafford Park 6 for three months.
“The owners of the business are also not allowed to attend the property.
“Today (Monday, September 14) officers have arrested two men, aged 53 and 63, on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, and handling stolen goods. They both remain in police custody as enquiries continue.”
Detective Constable Hulme, from Telford’s Proactive CID, said: "This closure order is a significant step in protecting the public and disrupting suspected criminal activity in Telford.
"Following intelligence and reports received from members of the public, officers carried out a thorough investigation which led to this warrant being executed.
"The discovery of a substantial quantity of vehicles and vehicle parts resulted in two men being arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle and handling stolen goods. Our enquiries remain ongoing to identify anyone who may be involved in criminality and bringing them to justice.
"We hope this action reassures the community that we will act on information provided to us and will use all available powers to tackle suspected offending and protect local residents and businesses."
Anyone who believes they may have been affected is asked to contact officers by emailing [email protected] quoting their vehicle registration number and any crime reference number if the matter has previously been reported to police. People are also asked to include their contact details.