A MAN has been arrested after 32 lorries had their curtains slashed at Strensham Services on the M5 near Worcester last night (Thursday).
Police were called after two men were seen acting suspiciously. Nothing was reported stolen from the HGVs but a vehicle fled the services and was followed by officers.
After a pursuit on the M5 through Droitwich and Bromsgrove, the vehicle was eventually stopped near Junction 3 of the northbound carriageway following support from West Midlands Police and the use of a stinger.
A man, aged 30, was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and theft and remains in police custody.
West Mercia Police has a proactive operation in place called Operation Yard which is aimed at clamping down on criminal gangs targeting lorries and stealing their goods.
Officers carry out regular patrols at service stations and lay-bys being used by haulage drivers to park up overnight throughout the three counties we serve.
South Worcestershire Det Ch Insp Chris Percival said: “We were pleased to make an arrest after vehicles were targeted at Strensham services last night.
“We know most haulage thefts are connected to organised crime and the items they steal are likely sold on with the cash used to fuel further criminality.
“Those who are targeting service stations and laybys in our force area should be aware we are targeting them.”
Drivers can help us in our fight to prevent these thefts and follow some simple steps to help protect themselves.
The police advise lorry drivers make sure they park in a secure area if possible, park where they can see their vehicle and make sure the loading doors are close to another vehicle or wall to make it harder for criminals to gain access.
