Champagne and spirits worth hundreds of pounds have been seized by police who pulled over a car suspected to be linked to spate of shoplifting.

Three women were arrested following multiple reports of shop thefts in Maidstone and Edenbridge including at Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Waitrose, and Home Bargains.

A suspicious vehicle was stopped in Jeffrey Street, Maidstone, at around 3pm on February 20. A search led to the seizure of stolen items, including alcohol, groceries, and homeware.

Officers also recovered a black magnetic security tag remover.

The suspects, from areas of Croydon and Purley in London, were detained in connection with handling stolen goods and theft offences and taken into custody.

They have all since been bailed with conditions, pending further enquiries.

Investigating officer, PC Ryan Shardlow-Wrest said: “Efforts are being increased to tackle out-of-county thieves, who travel into Kent to steal from supermarkets and other retailers.

“Visiting criminals detrimentally impact the local community, who see the cost of everyday items rise, as businesses strive to re-coup losses.

“We use technology such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), and work with our partners, including British Transport Police to identify and disrupt those who travel into our towns, with the sole intention of committing crime.

“Our message is simple, keep away or you will be arrested.”