A man was arrested on suspicion of theft of a car just three minutes after the vehicle was stolen.

At 3am on Wednesday morning, a woman watched as her Volvo XC90 was taken from her house in Beaumont Avenue.

After calling the police, officers arrested a man in Drakes Drive, at the junction of London Road, just three minutes later.

St Albans Detective Inspector Alex Warwick said: “This was a key less theft following a trend where offenders are using sophisticated devices to open and start vehicles. I am really pleased that due to the victim’s quick thinking and officers’ swift response, we were able to reunite her with her car.

"Please remember to keep your car and house keys away from your front door, look out for your neighbours and report any suspected crimes in progress on 999.“

  • A 29-year-old man from Newton Street, Southport, Merseyside, has been charged with theft of a motor vehicle and having no insurance. He is due to attend Central West Herts Magistrates Court on April 24.