Flying Squad Swoops on Parcel Thieves in Southall
Three arrests after packages taken from delivery van
Picture: Met Police
December 11, 2023
Three men have been charged with theft after a number of packages were stolen from a delivery van in Southall.
Flying Squad officers were engaged in an intelligence-led operation when they saw a group of three men threatening a delivery driver at 9:40am on Thursday, 7 December.
One of the trio was reported to be carrying a crowbar and they started taking parcels from the back of the van. Ten were removed which, when recovered were found to have an estimated value of £5,000.
The three men were arrested and taken into custody where they were later charged with robbery.
In the run up to Christmas, the Met has seen an increase in reports of robberies involving delivery vans.
In response to this, a dedicated operation, led by the Flying Squad, has been set-up and officers are working to proactively identify and arrest those involved.
Detective Chief Inspector Scott Mather, from the Met's Flying Squad, said, "We have seen an increase in reports of robberies involving delivery vans over the past few weeks and some of these have resulted in drivers being assaulted.
"Robbery always has a significant impact on victims, but especially so in the run up to Christmas, when so many people are making online orders.
"I am pleased we have been able to arrest and charge three people as part of our dedicated operation and we will continue to work proactively to identify offenders."
Anyone who notices any suspicious activity involving delivery vans, or has information about offences, should call 101. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
Information can also be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.
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