Car crime suspects arrested following work with local community in Ashford

Two suspects have been arrested following proactive work by neighbourhood police to tackle vehicle crime on a residential estate in Ashford.

Kent Police was made aware early on Sunday 4 October 2026 that an attempt had been made overnight to break into a BMW and a property on Ripley Road, Willesborough.

A further report was received later that day that air pods and cash had been stolen overnight from a car nearby in Nelson Close.

Street briefing

Initial enquiries were completed, which included a street briefing to local residents from a Police Community Support Officer on Monday 5 October.

Following the briefing, additional reports were received that a car had been tampered with on Collard Road, and a vacuum cleaner had been taken from a vehicle in Duckworth Close.

Arrests made

Investigating officers then pursued further lines of enquiry, leading to the arrests of two men on Tuesday 6 October in Newtown Green.

A 44 year old and 39 year old were taken into custody and have been bailed with conditions while the investigation continues.

Neighbourhood Policing Team Inspector Simon Johnson said: ‘These swift arrests highlight the value of neighbourhood policing and the importance of the strong relationships our officers and PCSOs have with the members of the communities they serve. ‘By engaging with local residents, sharing crime prevention advice and encouraging the reporting of suspicious activity, we are able to build a clearer picture of issues affecting an area and identify those suspected of committing offences. The information provided following our street briefing in Willesborough was invaluable in progressing this investigation, and we will continue to work closely with our communities across Ashford to keep neighbourhoods safe.’