'Comprehensive investigation' into keyless car thefts leads to 11 arrests including Portsmouth man

Around 40 vehicles were taken by keyless start, with an estimated value of £500,000. Dorset Police’s Serious Organised Crime Investigation Team (SOCIT) have been analysing what has been described as “large-scale organised theft”.

The force said incidents have taken place across the south of England, with vehicles being exported overseas. Detective Chief Inspector Jamie Halford, of SOCIT, said: “This comprehensive investigation has been a collaborative effort across several force areas to disrupt the activities of this group reported to be involved in a widescale operation targeting keyless start vehicles.

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“Our detectives are continuing to compile evidence and are already working closely with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) with a view to securing charges in this case.”

Dorset Police added: “Following detailed enquires, 11 people have now been arrested on suspicion of vehicle theft offences. They include seven men from Bournemouth – aged 19, 24, 25, 27, 33, 34 and 38 – as well as a 32-year-old Bournemouth woman, a 25-year-old man from Portsmouth, a 37-year-old man from Romford and a 41-year-old man from Weston-Super-Mare.

“All the suspects have been released on police bail or released under investigation as further enquiries are conducted. A 38-year-old man from Bournemouth has also been interviewed by officers and released under investigation.

“The most recent arrest occurred in the Avon and Somerset area and led to a subsequent search of an industrial area.”