If you suspect a chop shop..

If you suspect a chop shop..

If you suspect a "chop shop"—an illegal garage where stolen vehicles are dismantled for parts—operating in the

Tipton

Great Bridge

area, the West Midlands Police (WMP) strongly urge you to report it.

Signs of a Chop Shop

Look for these "tell-tale" indicators in industrial units, garages, or even residential gardens:

More Information:

Late-Night Activity: Unusual noise (grinding, drilling) late at night or in the early hours.

One-Way Traffic: High-value vehicles or vans entering a unit but never being seen leaving.

Visible Parts: Expensive items like engines, gearboxes, or piles of body panels stored outside or in odd places like gardens.

Unusual Infrastructure: Shipping containers placed in strange or hidden locations.

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How to Report It

Non-Emergency: Call 101 or use the West Midlands Police Live Chat.

Report Anonymously: If you don't want to give your name, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

Emergency: Always call 999 if a crime is currently in progress or if there is an immediate threat of violence.

West Midlands Police (WMP)

have conducted multiple raids on suspected "chop shops" in Sandwell, notably in Smethwick, Oldbury, and Tipton between 2022 and 2026, recovering stolen vehicles and parts. These intelligence-led operations, often involving industrial units, frequently result in arrests and the disruption of gangs handling high-value stolen cars.

Thank You From Your Tipton & Great Bridge Team.

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Message Sent By
Selina Male
(Police, Police Community Support Officer, Tipton)