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UK Car Key Burglary Gang Jailed for Nearly 100 Years After £3.5m Spree

Operation Flare, led by West Mercia Police, dismantled the group through a cross‑force investigation.

Overview

  • West Mercia Police said all 12 gang members have now been convicted and jailed, concluding Operation Flare.
  • Worcester Crown Court imposed combined prison terms of nearly 100 years along with lengthy driving bans.
  • Prosecutors said the group broke into homes to take car keys, bleached touchpoints to hinder forensics, and fled at speeds above 160mph.
  • The thieves targeted nearly 100 BMW, Audi and Land Rover vehicles between May and August 2024, then sold them with fake identities or stripped them in illegal chop shops.
  • Judges and detectives said victims suffered lasting harm, with many moving house after the break-ins and losses of about £3.5 million.