5 days ago
Scores of bikes and weapons seized in 'all out' West Midlands neighbourhood blitz
Dozens of bikes, scooters and stolen cars were seized in an "all out" blitz in West Midlands neighbourhoods.
Residents in Solihull had reported numerous incidents of gangs using violence or threat of violence to steal bikes in the area this year.
Over the course of three days from August 8, teams from West Midlands Police were assisted by neighbouring forces in seizing a whopping 27 vehicles and arresting nine people in Chelmsley Wood and Birmingham.
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Across the course of the three days, officers made nine arrests for multiple offences including possession of drugs with intent to supply, dangerous driving and armed robbery.
Police pictures of the seized haul showed e-bikes, off-road bikes and stolen cars and vans piled up to be taken in by the force.
A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "We arrested nine people and recovered 27 vehicles as we continue our investigation into robberies across Solihull.
"Our Solihull Neighbourhood Team recently launched Operation Luxray, which is targeting the increase in motorcycle and pedal cycle robberies across the borough.
"Starting on Friday, with warrants across Chelmsley Wood and Birmingham, the team carried out intensive action through until Sunday.
"Our officers were supported with resources from across the force, including Guardian Taskforce, our traffic officers, and National Police Air Service (NPAS).
"Across the three days, we made nine arrests for multiple offences including possession of drugs with intent to supply, dangerous driving, armed robbery, and possession of an offensive weapon.
"We also seized 27 vehicles across the three days which included three high-powered e-bikes, off-road bikes, quad bikes, stolen cars and vans, along with multiple mopeds.
"Our officers were patrolling across the Solihull borough, and were supported by colleagues from neighbouring forces Warwickshire Police and Staffordshire Police.
"Multiple weapons including knives, machetes, and screwdrivers were seized, along with cash and mobile phones believed to be used in crime.
"The enforcement is all part of our action to tackle the intrusive and distressing crime, and emphasises our stance that it will not be accepted."
Inspector Andy Bridgewater, from Solihull Police, said: 'The warrants and all-out action over the weekend show that we will not accept this offence taking place, and will work to bring those responsible before the courts.'
