A criminal gang is targeting Minis in the West Midlands and West Mercia with the number of incidents going ‘ballistic’ in the past month, police have warned.
According to a spokesman, a “significant number” of thefts have occurred covering every variant of classic Mini from late and running cars to early restoration projects. Austins and Coopers are at particular risk.
Whether they are being broken for parts or sold overseas is unclear. What is apparent is that values have risen sharply in recent years, making the cars a desirable target for thieves.
PC Alan Colman, who owns a ’67 Cooper ‘S’, told C&SC: “If you own a Mini take time to ensure it’s secured with an alarm, steering lock or even a tracker.
“If you see anything suspicious report it to the police – nine out of 10 times it’s reports like these that lead to an arrest. Even if cars that have been stripped they are easily recognisable to owners.”
Security tips for motorists can be found on the Safer Motors website. West Midlands Police can be contacted by dialling the 101 non-emergency number, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
