Operation Acquire: Early morning action sees two arrested by Bolton’s Neighbourhood Priority Crime Team

Operation Acquire is a proactive operation that specifically focusses on neighbourhood crime force wide. Each district in Greater Manchester has their own dedicated team of officers that proactively seek and arrest criminals.

Early this morning (Wednesday 29 November 2023) at around 7am, officers gained entry at an address in Farnworth, Bolton.

Two people, a 22-year-old man and a 16-year-old girl were both arrested on suspicion of theft of motor vehicles, handling stolen goods, conspiracy to commit theft, and possession of class C drugs.

During the search of the property, tools suspected to have been used to steal vehicles, clothing, mobile phones, nitrous oxide and several vehicle registration plates were seized and taken for forensic examination.

The arrests come after a lengthy investigation by the Bolton’s Neighbourhood Priority Crime Team after reports to police of several vehicle thefts across the Bolton district between April 2022 and October 2023.

Detective Sergeant Carla Deighton of Bolton’s Neighbourhood Priority Crime Team, said: “A lot of the work GMP does to tackle the issue may not be visible but catching those responsible remains a force priority. Cars are of both great value and sentimental value to those in our communities and we understand that having a car stolen can have a huge impact both financially and emotionally.

"We will continue to work to bring offenders to justice, but I would ask that the public to help us to help you by following our crime prevention advice:

- Make sure your car keys are not on show or where they can easily be reached when at home. - Always keep your windows and doors locked, even if you are leaving your home for 5 minutes.

- If you have a steering lock, use it, they are a really good visual deterrent.

“There are also other ways to help keep your vehicle safe such as investing in a tracking device.

“Anyone with information that will help bring those suspected of vehicle crime offences to justice is encouraged to contact police either via the LiveChat or reporting function on our website or by calling 101.

“You can also pass on information anonymously through CrimeStoppers by calling 0800 555 111.”