Met Police Recovers Stolen Ferrari F512M After 28-Year Mystery

In a remarkable turn of events, the Metropolitan Police have successfully recovered a rare Ferrari F512M, stolen 28 years ago from former Formula One driver Gerhard Berger in London. The red sports car, valued at £350,000, was discovered after being illicitly transported to Japan following its theft in 1995. Despite the vehicle’s long absence, the diligent efforts of the police, in collaboration with Ferrari and international car dealerships, brought the prized automobile back to light, though no arrests have yet been made.

The theft occurred while Berger was attending the San Marino Grand Prix in Imola, Italy, in April 1995. The car’s journey ended when it resurfaced in the UK in late 2023 after the National Crime Agency and the police’s organized vehicle crime unit traced its path from Japan. Ferrari played a crucial role in the recovery by flagging the vehicle during routine checks, as it was being purchased by a buyer in the US.

PC Mike Pilbeam highlighted the swift success of the operation, stating that the Ferrari, which had vanished for over two decades, was located in just four days. This recovery shines a light on the persistent and meticulous work of law enforcement in solving long-standing cases and reuniting owners with their cherished possessions.