Gangs increase crime activity in and around Heathrow
In the last month there has been an increase in criminal activity with regards to crimes being committed that fall within the Operation Grafton remit in the Heathrow Airport area. Relevant offences have taken place in the Metropolitan Police, Surrey and Thames Valley areas. These have included, Stanwell, Staines, Ashford, Iver, Colnbrook, Harefield, Uxbridge, Hounslow, Southall, Greenford, Stockley Park and the immediate area around Heathrow.
The property sought appears to be high value computer chips, mobile phones and electrical items. The gang have also made two unsuccessful attacks on a cash and valuable warehouse.
The methods used include hi-jacking vehicles and using heavy goods vehicles and a mobile crane to ram through the walls of premises.
The gang/s are believed to be between two and seven in number. Their chosen vehicles appear to be high performance Audi's. These have included, A3's, an Audi convertible, Audi Estates, A6's and RS's. It is also believed that BMW vehicles may have been used by the individuals concerned. The gang often wear balaclavas when carrying out the attacks and believed to be in possession of offensive weapons and crow bars. If seen they should not be approached under any circumstances. They are believed to be extremely dangerous. Please ring 999 immediately if you are either the victim of an offence or believe that you are about to become a victim as a result of suspicious activity around either yourself, your staff, vehicles or premises. Operation Grafton has briefed surrounding police stations on these matters and we are taking these matters extremely seriously. As of yet the gang(s) have generally been unsuccessful and activities over the weekend have led us to believe that these attacks will continue on a nightly basis until they are successful. The pattern of attacks have taken place between 7pm and 4am. These times should however not be taken for granted.
Operation Grafton is appealing for witness to any of these events to come forward. Any information, no matter how small be assist us to bring this matter to a successful conclusion at the earliest opportunity. If you have any information which you think may assist us in these matters you can call Operation Grafton on 0208 246 9972/3 between 8am and Mid night. Alternatively you can contact your local police station and ask for the information to be passed to us. If you wish to remain anonymous and believe you can assist please contact CRIME STOPPERS on 0800 555 111. All calls will be treated in the strictest confidence.
