11 men have been arrested following a proactive operation tackling catalytic converter thefts across west London.
Operation Sandcat was conducted over a two-day period last week (12th and 13th January) and involved a number of officers from the West Area Command Unit, West Area Crime Squad, dog unit and roads policing.
Officers engaged in a variety of activities, involving patrols in hotspot areas and targeted intelligence-led work.
At around 6pm last Thursday (13th January), a stolen BMW was seen in Greenford. The occupants failed to stop and a pursuit ensued. After stopping the vehicle, the occupants fled on foot in Wakeling Lane, Wembley.
With the assistance of the police helicopter and dog units, five men were arrested.
A subsequent search discovered the vehicle had blue lights in the front of the dashboard, used to imitate police. Tools and multiple catalytic convertors, believed to be stolen, were also found.
All of the suspects were arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, theft of a motor vehicle, theft, aggravated vehicle taking, impersonating a police officer, going equipped to steal and failing to stop for police. Three other men were arrested on suspicion of robbery and fraud by traffic police and further arrests were made later by Thames Valley Police.
Inspector Owens, from West Area Command said: “This crime type is a problem for the community. We are extremely pleased with the result of our operation.”
