Bolton’s neighbourhood priority crime team make third arrest following a series of lock snap burglaries

This morning (Thursday 13 April 2023), a 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of three burglary dwellings after officers executed an early morning warrant at a property in Bolton.

Three phones, two balaclavas and a screwdriver were recovered from the property with enquiries ongoing.

The warrant was executed as part of a plain clothed investigation by Bolton’s Neighbourhood Priority Crime Team into lock snap burglaries at homes in the Westhoughton and Horwich areas of Bolton targeting high value vehicles.

Last week officers charged and remanded two other men in connection with these burglaries.

• Wesley Hislop (28/07/1997) of Thistleton Road, Bolton has been charged with two burglary dwelling offences and a fraud offence.
• Rhys Jackson (15/06/2003) of Wright Street, Horwich has been charged with four burglary dwelling offences, three driving offences and a theft offence.

Both have been remanded to reappear at Bolton Crown Court on the 15/05/23.

Detective Sergeant Carla Deighton, of GMP's Bolton Neighbourhood Crime Team, said: "Our communities have the right to feel safe, especially in their own homes.

"The fight against burglary continues whilst our dedicated proactive teams focus on preventing and reducing this type of crime.

"Action like this shows the public that Greater Manchester Police is committed to investigating crimes whilst keeping people safe and caring for victims.”

To help us help you, follow GMP’s top tips to protect your home from lock snap burglaries:

• You can add additional locks to existing patio and French doors for extra security.
• Look to upgrade your euro cylinder locks to an anti-snap cylinder lock with a three start rating under TS 007 or an anti-snap cylinder which has a solid secure diamond standard.
• Consider improving door handles as well and replace them with a two star rating under TS 007.
• Use a reputable lock replacement company preferably with a Master Locksmiths Association accreditation (www.locksmiths.co.uk)
• You might be able to fit sash jammers to your doors, which have also been proven to prevent burglaries. (check this won’t invalidate any warranty on existing doors)

For more crime prevention advice: www.gmp.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention

Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via gmp.police.uk or 101. In an emergency, always dial 999. Information about crime can also be shared anonymously via, the independent charity, Crimestoppers on 0800 555.

Anyone with information should contact police or Crimestoppers, anonymously.