Police have seized more than £1 million worth of stolen car parts in a major operation targeting a suspected chop shop and vehicle theft ring in Kent. Two men from Ilford, Essex have been charged in connection with the sophisticated criminal enterprise following coordinated raids.
Extensive Operation Uncovers Two Key Sites
The investigation, led by Maidstone CID, centres on premises located in Scragged Oak Lane, Detling, allegedly used to dismantle dozens of stolen vehicles between September 2024 and May 2025.
A second suspected distribution centre was uncovered in Waterditch Road, Lenham, during a police search on 24 April. Officers discovered thousands of suspected stolen car parts, prompting charges against two suspects.
“This operation represents a significant disruption to organised vehicle theft networks operating in the region,” the spokesperson said. “We continue to appeal to anyone with information relating to the movement or sale of stolen car parts to contact police.”
How You Can Help
Anyone with relevant information is urged to call Kent Police on 101, quoting the reference associated with the Detling and Lenham raids. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
