Police investigating a series of keyless car thefts across southern England have made multiple arrests.
Detectives from Dorset Police say enquiries focused on the organised theft of around 40 keyless start vehicles between April and December 2024, with an estimated value of more than £500,000, believed to have been stolen and exported overseas.
The investigation is being led by the force’s Serious Organised Crime Investigation Team, which has been examining reports of vehicles taken from locations across the south of England as part of what officers believe was a coordinated operation.
So far, 11 suspects have been arrested on suspicion of vehicle theft offences. They include 7 men from Bournemouth aged 19, 24, 25, 27, 33, 34 and 38, as well as a 32 year old Bournemouth woman and 3 men from other parts of England.
All of those arrested have been released on police bail or under investigation while enquiries continue, and a 38 year old Bournemouth man has also been interviewed by detectives and released under investigation.
Detective Chief Inspector Jamie Halford said the investigation involved collaboration across several police forces and officers are now working with the Crown Prosecution Service with the aim of securing charges.
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