GMP intercept stolen vehicle in Heywood reuniting it with its thankful owner

Last night (Sunday 20 August 2023) at around 8pm, Greater Manchester Police’s Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit (TVIU) sighted a cloned and stolen Ford Fiesta, one of the most targeted, from last month in the Rochdale area.

After being covertly followed it was 'boxed' successfully to prevent any further danger near to the centre of Heywood on St James Street.

The driver, a 63-year-old man was subsequently arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle. He has been released under investigation whilst enquiries continue.

PC James Johnson of GMP’s Rochdale district said; “Vehicle crime is something we trying to actively tackle in our area and understand it is a big concern for residents.

“With significant resource behind it as a force, the reactive thinking and police instinct from our colleagues in the highly trained TVIU group have once again found a stolen vehicle quickly as part of our investigation, in what can be a very distressing experience for owners who lose their personal belongings that have extreme value and importance to them on a day-to-day basis.

“We would like drivers to think about making it harder for criminals to steal their belongings by taking the time to read through some of our crime prevention advice as some simple tips can make a big difference, especially if you have keyless entry.”

GMP is encouraging owners to take a few minutes to review keys tips on how to keep your vehicle safe by clicking this link: Keeping vehicles safe | Crime prevention | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)