A 20-STRONG mob stole seventy cars from a garage – after taking seven people hostage.

The Asian gang, armed with wheelbraces and screwdrivers, swooped as staff locked up.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

They held four staff and three visitors in offices, then spent ten hours driving second-hand cars away from Auto King in Rainham, Essex.

The visitors – three Chinese men – escaped about 3am. Staff walked free when the gang fled an hour later with the owner, who was dumped 15 miles away.

Police believe the £500,000 raid is the largest car theft in Britain.

Almost all the vehicles – imported from Japan – were found in Wembley, North West London, two days after the April 8 raid. Police only released details yesterday and appealed for the Chinese men to come forward.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Last night two men were assisting inquiries.

Just Auto Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Auto Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now