Crossword Genius

Criminals in automobiles? (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

mob

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'criminals' is the definition.
Although both the answer and definition are nouns, they are not in the same form of the noun.

'in automobiles?' is the wordplay.
'in' says the answer is hidden in the clue.
'MOB' is hidden in the letters of 'automobiles'.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for mob that I've seen before include "Rowdy lot" , "Throng" , "Ugly crowd" , "Crowd round" , "Crime syndicate or disorderly crowd" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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