Police say they have disrupted a route which saw stolen vehicles from Stirling destined for Africa.
At a recent meeting of Stirling Council’s public safety committee, councillors were told that organised criminals involved in vehicle theft had been targeted by officers.
They said a stolen car in a shipping container was connected to more stolen motors from the Stirling area.
It’s thought the sting as disrupted “a significant export route for vehicles stolen from the UK”.
In a report, police representatives said: “In May 2022, Police Scotland Small Ports Team had cause to open a large shipping container held at Grangemouth docks.
“A stolen vehicle was found within, destined for transportation to Africa.
“A search warrant was craved and executed in partnership with the Forth Valley Priority Crime Team whereby a further two stolen vehicles were recovered.”
It adds the further inquiries connected the cars to stolen vehicles ”in the Stirling area”.
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The report added that a second container was later identified and further stolen vehicles recovered.
“Enquiries remain ongoing at this time,” it added, “however a significant export route for vehicles stolen from the UK has been disrupted.”
Someone is said to have since been remanded in custody in connection with the thefts.
Police also said that, following reports of suspicious activity and a spate of housebreakings involving the theft of three vehicles in the Stirling, Denny and Bonnybridge areas, cops established apparent links between the crimes committed across the three areas.
“By exploring CCTV opportunities and conducting enquiries, it was established that two males wearing distinctive clothing were responsible.
“Diligent enquiries resulted in the recovery of two vehicles which have since been returned to their rightful owners.
“Forensic enquiries were expedited around a distinctive coloured hat that had been recovered from one of the stolen vehicles.
“Following further vehicle thefts in the division one males has been apprehended and is currently in custody.
“Enquiries remain ongoing.”
