Suspected Maidstone shoplifters detained on M20

Three men from Essex have been arrested after more than £2,000 of alcohol, suspected to have been stolen from a Maidstone shop was discovered in their hire car.

At least 40 bottles of spirits and high-value champagne were recovered, after the vehicle was stopped by patrols on the M20 as it was heading towards the Dartford Crossing.

The grey Skoda had initially been seen parked near a Tesco supermarket in Weavering, at around lunchtime on Wednesday 27 September 2023, where a retired police officer saw three men acting suspiciously.

Car tracked

The car was swiftly tracked and stopped by constables at the Swanley interchange.

The vehicle was then searched, leading to the discovery of the suspected stolen items and all three occupants were taken into custody in connection with theft offences.

An investigation is ongoing, which includes establishing if the suspected stolen items were taken from one or more stores. The suspects, aged 22, 37, and 57 are all from Ilford and Dagenham and were later bailed with conditions, pending the outcome of further enquiries. They are required to return to a police station on 20 December.