With van thefts surging across the UK, Derbyshire’s Traffic Cops are stepping up their efforts to catch the culprits. This episode finds them pursuing stolen vehicles, apprehending banned drivers, and tracking down thieves on the run. An estimated 1,000 vans disappear every month, making this a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. One target is a transit van stolen without keys, its drivers employing fake plates in an attempt to evade capture.
The pursuit doesn’t stop there. Officers confront a driver feigning amnesia about his disqualified status, a tactic unlikely to charm the authorities. A ram raid leads to the discovery of another stolen van, the driver facing a litany of charges, including drug possession. With helicopters and multiple units deployed, the police are pulling out all the stops to bring these criminals to justice. CCTV footage captures a trio of thieves pilfering cable drums in the Midlands, adding another piece to the puzzle.
Presented by Jamie Theakston, this episode of “Traffic Cops” provides a glimpse into the world of organized crime and the meticulous work involved in tracking down offenders.
Traffic Cops airs on Channel 5 at 8:00 PM on Monday, January 6, 2025.
