Six individuals have been arrested, and four stolen vehicles recovered, during a two-day police operation at the Port of Dover aimed at stopping criminals from fleeing the country with stolen goods.

The operation, carried out on Thursday, March 27, and Friday, March 28, 2025, was a collaborative effort involving the Rural Task Force, Port of Dover officers, and the National Construction and Agricultural Theft Team (NCATT).

Major Recoveries and Arrests

A total of 236 vehicles were stopped and searched during the operation, leading to the recovery of over £100,000 worth of stolen items, including four suspected stolen vehicles. Police also seized around £4,000 believed to be linked to criminal activities.

One of the most significant finds was a mini digger reported stolen following a burglary in Derbyshire earlier in March. It was discovered concealed behind boxes in a van. The driver, a 39-year-old man from London, was arrested and later bailed.

Additionally, officers arrested three men on suspicion of motor vehicle theft after stopping a black BMW with suspected tampered number plates. Investigations revealed that the car had been reported stolen from Slough earlier in the month. A blue BMW estate associated with the theft was also intercepted, and the two men inside were taken into custody. All three suspects, aged 27, 38, and 24, were later bailed.

Another significant recovery included a suspected stolen horse box. Officers noticed that the identifiable markers had been removed, and efforts are ongoing to reunite it with its rightful owner.

Police Statement

Sergeant Ross Haybourne from the Rural Task Force said:

“Operations like these allow us to take a closer look at those sailing from Dover. Those criminals who think they can leave the country with their stolen goods have nowhere to hide, and we will continue in our fight to bring offenders to justice.”

Community Reaction and Ongoing Investigations

The arrests and seizures have been widely welcomed by the community, particularly those in rural and agricultural sectors who have been increasingly targeted by thefts.

Police have urged anyone with information related to stolen goods or suspicious activities at the Port of Dover to come forward. Information can be reported anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

This operation is part of an ongoing campaign to tackle cross-border crime and ensure that Dover’s port remains secure from criminal activities.

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