Two suspects have been charged in connection with the supply of stolen car parts worth more than £1million.
The men were arrested as part of an extensive investigation linked to the theft of vehicles across the South East of England and a chop shop near Maidstone.
It is reported that between September 2024 and May 2025, a premises in Detling was used to dismantle parts from dozens of stolen vehicles. Investigating officers are connecting the address to a separate alleged distribution centre in Lenham. This site was searched by police on 24 April and led to the seizure of thousands of suspected stolen car parts.
Enquiries by Maidstone CID led to the arrest of a 25-year-old, Ilford man and on 21 May, he was charged with conspiracy to receive stolen goods, as well as handling stolen goods. He appeared before Medway Magistrates’ Court on the same day and was remanded in custody.
His alleged associate, aged 40 and also from Ilford was previously remanded by the same court on 3 May. He was charged with conspiracy to receive stolen goods, as well as driving whilst disqualified, driving without insurance, and using a false number plate.
Both men will next appear at Maidstone Crown Court, during separate hearings in June.