West Midlands Police have apprehended a 21-year-old man and successfully recovered two firearms and a machete following an encounter with a suspicious vehicle in Coventry. The incident unfolded on December 23 at approximately 21:40 GMT when officers attempted to stop a car suspected of using cloned license plates.
During this operation, a brief pursuit ensued, ultimately leading to the discovery of the abandoned vehicle on Austin Drive in Coventry. Assisted by a dedicated police dog, officers conducted an extensive search of the surrounding area, ultimately resulting in the discovery of two firearms and a machete nearby.
The 21-year-old suspect was taken into custody and is expected to face a series of charges, including theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving, burglary, possession of an offensive weapon, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.
This significant arrest forms part of Operation Target, an initiative launched by West Midlands Police dedicated to combatting serious and organised crime within the region. Authorities are actively pursuing other individuals believed to be associated with the vehicle, with ongoing investigations including the analysis of CCTV footage and interviews with potential witnesses.
Law enforcement agencies are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed the incident or was in the vicinity at the time to come forward with any information they may possess. Additionally, individuals who have dash-cam or Ring doorbell footage relevant to the investigation are strongly encouraged to share their recordings.
Those with pertinent information can contact West Midlands Police by quoting log number 4516 of 23/12/23 through the following channels: phone at 101, the Live Chat function on the official website, or Crimestoppers, where they can provide anonymous tips, at 0800 555 111.
