Fifty-eight arrests in West Midlands Police car swoop

Fifty-eight people have been arrested as part of a three-week operation targeting vehicle-related crime.



The Automatic Number Plate Recognition System (ANPR) was used to arrest people suspected of robbery, domestic violence, theft and drugs offences.

West Midlands Police said 98 cars were also seized for driving offences, such as lack of insurance.

The operation, entitled Storm, took place on roads in Coventry, Birmingham and Wolverhampton.

Operation 'success'

The annual operation took place throughout December, and included the recovery of a firearm in Birmingham city centre.

Supt Chris Johnson said the operation used information and intelligence to target particular vehicles.

"Our intention is to catch the criminals who use our road networks to commit crime, targeting those people who seek to cause harm, and making our communities safer."

Mr Johnson said the operation was a success despite the poor weather conditions.