A TRACKER from a stolen car in London led police officers to a large “chop shop” in Rayleigh.

Essex Police officers were alerted by a tracker activation for a stolen car in London, which led them to units at the Lychgate Industrial Estate in Arterial Road, Rayleigh.

The officers found seven dismantled cars, which had all been reported stolen.

They included a Range Rover, also BMW and Mercedes cars.

A stolen Ford Transit van was also recovered at the scene.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: “Two men aged 26 and 35 from Romford were arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle.

“They have been released on bail until June 4 while we continue our enquiries.”

In the space of 12 months between April 2019 and April this year, theft of vehicle offences in Essex has dropped, but police continue to investigate any reports of stolen vehicles with their stolen vehicle investigation unit.

The police have issued simple advice to owners to reduce the chance their vehicle will be targeted by thieves, including parking in a secure

location and well-lit or busier areas.

The spokesman added: “For keyless cars specifically; store keys away from household entry points such as your front or back doors, or windows.

“Keeping your keyless entry fob out of sight is not enough – thieves only need to get near to the key to amplify the signal – so take measures to ensure your key is safe.

“Check if your keyless fob can be turned off.

“If it can, and your dealer can also confirm this, then do so overnight.

“Contact your dealer and talk about the digital features in your car and if there have been any software updates you can take advantage of.

“Review your car security and consider devices such as mechanical locks and trackers which are proven to deter thieves.

“Check your car insurance with your provider and ask them for advice – they might ask you to fit additional security measures before giving cover.”

Call Basildon CID on

101 quoting reference 42/69244/20.