A group of men have been charged with conspiracy offences in connection with the theft of vehicles across Kent.

Police say that between March 20 and April 15, “multiple vehicles” were reported stolen from Medway, Maidstone, Tonbridge and New Romney during break-ins.

On Monday, April 15, two cars travelling towards Chatham were stopped by police and five men were arrested.

The suspects have all been charged with conspiracy to steal motor vehicles and conspiracy to burgle.

They are Rhys Smith, 29, of Brisley Lane, Ashford, Bill Adams, 24, of Elm Grove, Sittingbourne, Paul Bristow, 33, of Chilmington Green, Ashford, John Adams, 31, of Common Road, Cranbrook and Jamie Knight, 23, of South Park Road, Maidstone.

Yesterday (April 18) they appeared before Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court where they were remanded into custody.

Their next hearing will be at Maidstone Crown Court on May 17.

Police have been asked to confirm how many vehicles were reported stolen.