WEST Mercia has seen a significant fall in the number of vehicle thefts over 2025/26.
Comparing figures from 2024/25 to 2025/26, vehicle theft has decreased by 18.8 per cent, and police and crime commissioner John Campion has welcomed the progress, which supports his Safer Communities Plan commitment of ‘cutting crime’.
The latest data shows 1,335 vehicle theft offences were recorded in 2025 – down 23 per cent from 1,645 in 2024, and a further reduction from 1,654 offences in 2023.
Mr Campion said vehicle theft has been a long-standing priority for the PCC with it being a feature in quarterly assurance and accountability meetings with the Chief Constable.
He said: “For many people, their car is one of their most valued possessions. It’s vital that policing continues to identify and bring to justice the organised crime groups who seek to profit from stealing them.
“The focus on prevention, whether it’s advice to motorists, handing out vehicle security packs and SmartWater marking kits, alongside a more visible policing presence in areas most at risk, has played a major role in driving down vehicle theft across West Mercia.
“But this isn’t job done. I will continue to ensure West Mercia Police has the resources, scrutiny and support it needs to make the three counties a no‑go zone for criminals.”
Ch Insp Charles Parker, vehicle crime lead for West Mercia Police, said: “We are pleased to see this big reduction in vehicle crime in West Mercia Police’s force area.
“We have recently seen some good results at court putting the organised crime groups who are often behind these offences behind bars, with many more investigations ongoing and/or coming to court soon.
“However, we do not rest on our laurels over such offences that can deprive people of one of their most expensive purchases after a house, together with the inconvenience and additional impact of rising insurance costs it can bring.
“Our officers will continue to work around the clock to tackle such criminality and proactively offer support and advice to the public to help them protect their vehicles.”
