Two Men Jailed Over £250k Black Country Car Theft Spree
Two crooks have been locked up following a major police crackdown on a spree of high-value car thefts across Dudley and Sandwell. The pair targeted homes in the dead of night, nicking 15 vehicles worth nearly £250,000 straight from driveways while owners slept.
Racketeering Nightmare Across The Black Country
From September to December 2022, an organised gang hit homes across the Black Country. Their method: snapping door locks, sneaking inside, stealing car keys, and driving off with the motor. The crime run kicked off on 5 September 2022 when a white Audi A3 was stolen in Halesowen. The same car was later found in Cradley, disguised with false plates.
How Police Nabbed the Thieves
West Midlands Police pieced together the case using CCTV footage, ANPR data, and forensic evidence. Their manhunt led to the arrests of David Shaikh, 22, from Quinton, and Tobias Williams, 20, from Oldbury. Police found car keys and cash linked to multiple robberies on them.
The duo admitted charges of conspiracy to commit burglary and conspiracy to steal motor vehicles. At Birmingham Crown Court on 7 April, Shaikh was sentenced to 5 years in prison and Williams got 4 years 2 months.
Police Praise Team Effort, Issue Warning
“These were calculated and invasive offences that caused huge distress to victims across the region. We’re pleased with the outcome and hope it provides reassurance to our communities.”
West Midlands Police hailed this as a win in their fight against organised car theft rings. They urged residents to stay alert and keep home security tight. Anyone with tips about similar crimes should contact West Midlands Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111.