Man arrested and £100,000 of stolen solar panels recovered by West Mercia officers

This week, on Wednesday 27 June, West Mercia officers recovered 550 stolen solar panels worth more than £100,000 in Gloucestershire that were stolen from a farm in Worcestershire.

In a commendable display of investigative effort and partnership working with a local business, Evesham Safer Neighbourhood Team have successfully recovered the stolen solar panels. The thefts occurred on Sunday 25 and Monday 26 June. Thanks to the efforts of Evesham safer neighbourhood team and officers from West Mercia’s local policing priority team the stolen property was located at a site in Gloucestershire.

A 23-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft and released on bail while the investigation continues.

Inspector Dave Wise said “Through prompt investigation and invaluable intelligence sharing we were able to swiftly recover the stolen solar panels. This recovery and arrest not only represents a success in this investigation but also demonstrates our commitment to safeguarding renewable energy infrastructure across South Worcestershire.

"The Safer Neighbourhood Teams in rural South Worcestershire have been actively engaging with local businesses to combat rural crime and ensure the security of vital installations such as solar farms. “Solar farms play a pivotal role in the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure. We are working closely with business leads and partner agencies to enhance their security measures and are taking every opportunity to pursue and prosecute those who commit offences in our area.”

To report any information about the thefts please contact Evesham SNT here quoting 22/60988/23.

Alternatively, information can be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting www.crimestoppers-org.uk

Issued by JL, Corporate Communications