A sweet-smelling crime came to a bitter end after police recovered thousands of pounds worth of chocolate and confectionery last month. On 20 February, officers on patrol spotted a black Audi A3 driving through Longstanton , Cambridgeshire, with faulty brake lights.
When questioned, the driver claimed he was heading to Cambridge to have them repaired.
But routine checks raised suspicions. The vehicle, registered in London and insured to a Dorset driver, was followed to Huntingdon and stopped on Huntingdon Road.
Inside the boot, officers discovered three bin bags containing 1,032 suspected stolen items, including 716 packets of chewing gum, 190 chocolate bars, Easter eggs, and assorted boxes of chocolates.
The driver, a 37-year-old man, and the passenger, a 40-year-old woman, both from Edgware, were arrested on suspicion of theft.
A further search of their London home uncovered another 1,055 chocolate bars, 621 packets of chewing gum, protein bars, cleaning products, clothing, and other retail items. In total, 2,956 items were recovered, valued at more than £7,000.
Neighbourhood Sergeant Rob Taylor said: “Organised crime doesn’t always look how people might expect. It can involve everyday goods such as chocolate and other retail products being stolen and then sold on for profit.
“These offences can have a significant impact on businesses and the wider community, and we will continue to pursue those involved.”
The couple has been bailed until 20 May, with conditions not to enter Cambridgeshire.
