West Midlands Police issue warning to drivers after seizing vehicles

A direct warning has been issued to drivers after multiple vehicles were seized for a "variety of offences" in a West Midlands town. While out on patrol this week, West Midlands Police recovered vehicles that were stolen, suspected to have been involved in crime and without tax.

Pictures shared by the force showed a van taken away on a low-loader and a white transit van being stopped. Officers said they were "acting on intelligence" as part of their patrols, which also resulted in a "significant" amount of drugs being seized.

The force also issued a warning to all drivers in Sandwell, saying that relay theft is on the rise across the borough. Relay theft, also known as keyless theft, sees car thieves use a device to trick a car into thinking its key fob is nearby.

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This means the car can be unlocked and its engine started. A West Midlands Police spokesperson said: "This week officers in Sandwell have been recovering and seizing vehicles for a variety of offences.

"Wednesbury Town officers have recovered a stolen vehicle. Acting on intelligence, officers also conducted a search on an address in Wednesbury town centre and found a significant quantity of class A drugs.

"Oldbury police officers have seized a vehicle for no tax and seized a vehicle which is suspected to have been involved in the theft of power tools.

"Relay theft is on the rise in Sandwell. Thieves can intercept your car key’s signal from outside your home and steal your vehicle—even if your doors are locked. Take steps to protect your car."

How to prevent relay theft:
• Use a signal-blocking pouch.
• Reprogram keys for used cars.
• Disable wireless fob signals.
• Add physical locks/immobilizers
• Ask your dealer about security upgrades.

The force spokesperson added: "See someone acting suspiciously around vehicles? Trying door handles or lingering near driveways? Call 999 immediately. Your vigilance can help us combat relay theft!"