Flying Squad detectives check some of the 17 Honda motor-car engines that were seized during an operation at an auto parts dealership off Red Hills Road in St Andrew yesterday. - Ian Allen/Staff Photographer

A businessman has been arrested for being in possession of two cars suspected to have been stolen and a number of Honda engines, as well as body parts valued about $42 million.

The police told The Gleaner yesterday that during a search at Honda Plus Ltd, an auto parts dealership off Red Hills Road in St Andrew, they found 17 Honda engines, the two Honda motor cars, engine and body parts.

The operator of the business was taken into custody after he was unable to provide evidence that he was in lawful possession of the property.

Cracking down on illicit operations

Detective Inspector Fitzroy Rhoden, of the Flying Squad, said the police would be cracking down on the illicit operations of auto supply companies.

"We are warning the persons who choose to deal illegally in the used-car and any other business that wherever they go, the police won't stop until they are caught," Rhoden said.

The Gleaner was also informed that the Financial Investigations Division would be contacted for its support in the ongoing probe.

Two weeks ago, Donovan Cole was charged with unlawful possession of property by the Flying Squad, following operations that led to the seizure of stolen vehicles, and parts, which the police estimated at $120 million.

The name of the businessman taken into custody yesterday has been withheld.

rasbert.turner@gleanerjm.com