The Ford Transit tipper truck was taken from a car park on Rosebery Way in Tring at approximately 6.40pm on Wednesday 29 December, closely followed by a Vauxhall Vectra.
The stolen van was recovered just 20 minutes after it was reported to police and a man was subsequently arrested from teamwork from Thames Valley Police and Herts Police.
Officers from both forces carried out a search and just before 7pm, the van was located by Thames Valley Police officers in the Bletchley area of Buckinghamshire. It has since been returned to its registered owner.
A short time later, further officers recovered the abandoned Vauxhall near to the village of Drayton Parslow, on the outskirts of Milton Keynes. It was later confirmed that it too had been previously stolen and was displaying false index plates.
A 33 year old man from Newport Pagnell was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle. He has since been released under investigation while enquiries continue.
DC Thomas London, who is investigating the theft, said:
“This incident is an excellent example of how cross-border partnership working and information sharing can lead to a timely and positive result.
“We’d like to thank our Thames Valley colleagues for their assistance, for their quick apprehension of the vehicle, and the arrest they made on our behalf. We are now progressing our enquiries.
“The van in question was locked and secured prior to being stolen, so we believe the suspects are not opportunist thieves. In light of this, we are urging residents to review their vehicle and home security to further protect their property.
“As a reassurance measure, we shall also be increasing both our overt and covert patrols in the Tring area. If you think you are witnessing a crime in progress, or you believe someone is in danger, always dial 999.”
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