A Sutton Coldfield Christmas market trader experienced a devastating loss when his van was stolen during the town’s Victorian Christmas Market on Friday, December 19. Hamza Tamran, locally known as The Curry Man, had parked his white Ford Transit Custom van at Mill Street car park early that morning but discovered it missing upon his return later that evening.
Hamza, a familiar face at Sutton’s monthly farmers’ markets and various food festivals, expressed his shock to BirminghamLive. “It was totally unexpected to find my van gone,” he said. “I have always parked in that car park without issue, so it was surprising to find no CCTV coverage there. Not even one camera covers that car park, and the Gate cameras don’t extend to the road or parking area.”
Besides the van, valued at £8,500, Hamza lost a gazebo, banners, and other equipment worth around £2,000. He also had approximately £400 in cash and his phone inside the vehicle. The theft forced him to borrow a friend’s car to continue trading over the weekend and caused cancellation of a planned market appearance in Buxton.
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“The police told me recovery was unlikely but promised to check any available CCTV,” Hamza added. “Insurance didn’t offer a courtesy van since mine was stolen. It’s clear Sutton needs more comprehensive CCTV coverage immediately.”
Hamza’s theft was the second such incident targeting Christmas market traders within a week. On December 12, Turan Atas suffered a break-in at South Parade car park, with thieves smashing windows and stealing stock worth £2,000. Both locations fall under the management of Birmingham City Council.
Michelle Baker, manager of Visit Royal Sutton Coldfield BID, commented on the incidents: “It is extremely disappointing that these serious crimes happened in two separate council car parks. The lack of CCTV is a glaring issue that needs urgent addressing. Cameras and signage are critical not only to deter crime but also to aid police investigation.”
West Midlands Police confirmed they are investigating the theft occurring between 9am and 5:45pm on December 19 and encourage anyone with information to come forward by contacting them via Live Chat or by phone.
The incidents have sparked calls within the community to improve security infrastructure in Sutton Coldfield car parks to protect traders and residents alike.