Lorry raids are halved in three years

The number of raids on security drivers in the West Midlands has more than halved in the past three months compared to last year, according to police.

Officers have said growing intelligence has helped.

Police are more aware of the activities of criminal gangs

In the usually busy three months leading up to last Christmas, officers dealt with a total of 22 robberies on on drivers delivering or collecting across the West Midlands.

This year that figure is down to 10.

Chief Insp Andy Parsons said: "Increased use of overt and covert patrols has made cash in transit and delivery vehicle robberies a far more risky enterprise for gangs.

"We are aware of the potential hot-spots, we have far greater communication with the industry over delivery times and are generally far better prepared."

To try and tackle the issue police launched Operation Vanguard which, alongside another initiative called Follow that Van, encouraged police on patrol to keep a close eye on unknown delivery vehicles.

Banks, building societies, post offices, betting shops, supermarkets, off licences, bars, restaurants and garages are all closely monitored under the scheme.

Chief Insp Parsons said: "Marked and unmarked police cars will always follow security vehicles, but there are many other covert tactics in place.

"This is a crime which can have lasting effects on the people who are working for the security companies or businesses, but it is one we are determined to stop."