Police trace stolen van within minutes

Police tracked down a stolen van and arrested a suspect five minutes after the vehicle was taken from a driveway.

The van was reported stolen from outside a home in Langdale Road, Bakersfield, Nottingham, around 12.50am on Tuesday (23 April).

Attending officers spotted the van at 12.55am in nearby Greenwood Road and pulled it over.

A man who exited the vehicle was detained and it was discovered the tools in the rear of the van had not been touched.

A 41-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle.

Inspector Pete Shaw, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:

“It is always a good result when we are able to quickly and safely recover a stolen vehicle.

“In this instance, it appears the offender did not have the opportunity to steal the tools which were securely locked in the back.

“So thanks to the fast and efficient response of officers, and the security measures taken by the owner, this was a very pleasing outcome.

“We know people rely on work vehicles, as well as the tools stored within, to carry out their jobs. Any theft of a motor vehicle will always be investigated robustly by the force.

“Our investigation into the theft is ongoing and anyone with any information should call police on 101, quoting incident number 15 of 23 April 2024, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.”