Operation Skybridge - Deployment Update

Good morning Residents, 

Firstly, on behalf of everyone at Operation Skybridge, we would like to wish you all a happy new year. 

It has been over two weeks since we deployed to Sutton Coldfield to support the local neighbourhood team in tackling serious and acquisitive crime (SAC) such as Robbery, Burglary and Vehicle Crime. As part of our deployments, we aim to keep residents in our deployment area updated with our progress. 

So far, we have made several arrests for a range of offences including Robbery, Burglary and possession with intent to supply class A drugs. The team have also made a number of Stop & Searches, routine traffic stops, attended multiple incidents as well as developing and submitting dozens of intelligence reports. 

I am pleased to report, that when reviewing the 14 day period before we deployed and comparing it with the 14 days since we deployed, SAC offences have reduced by 46%. 

Burglary is DOWN 33%

Robbery is DOWN 42%

Theft from motor vehicle is DOWN 46%

Theft of motor vehicle is DOWN 60%

While this is a promising start, we understand that behind every offence, there are victims. We will continue to work alongside colleagues from your local neighbourhood team to seek out those causing harm to your community. 

As the weather worsens and temperatures forecast to drop below freezing for the next 7 days, we would like to remind you not to leave your car running while it defrosts. Thieves will often anticipate this and will be looking for cars to steal. They will take any opportunity available to them and need only seconds to steal your car. Also ensure valuables are removed and windows and doors are secured on your house. We are also advising everyone to consider replacing door locks with anti-snap locks. Search “Anti snap locks” on YouTube for more information.  

If you have any information relating to Robbery, Burglary, Vehicle or Drug crime, please call Crimestoppers or contact West Midlands Police using the webchat function. Alternatively, you can contact the Op Skybridge Team direct on Opskybridge@westmidlands.police.uk (please do not use this email to report crime).

ALWAYS CALL 999 IN AN EMERGENCY 

With our best wishes for 2026

The Operation Skybridge Team.