Officers win at cross country race as they chase suspected burglar across Saddleworth moors

Two men arrested after cross-border police chase in Oldham.

Officers were made aware of a burglary last night at a home in Blackley, North Manchester, where three vehicles were reported to have been stolen.

Today (19 March 2024), GMP’s Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit (TVIU) were on duty and used ANPR to successfully identify a black BMW 1 series which they suspected to have been stolen last night. In just twelve hours, the car had been fitted with false plates and was back on the roads, with our systems showing it being active between GMP and West Yorkshire.

GMP’s TVIU officers lay in wait, prepared to snare the vehicle as it travelled past them on Ripponden Road near the border of Greater Manchester and West Yorkshire. Officers engaged in a short chase reaching speeds of 100mph, as the occupants attempt to evade capture.

Utilising specialist tactics, a Stinger was deployed, which successfully deflated all four tyres. The two occupants, knowing they were losing the battle, abandoned the car and attempted to make off on foot across the moors.

They were quickly arrested by officers who successfully chased them down.

Two men, aged 22 and 19, have been arrested on suspicion of burglary, dangerous driving, possession of controlled drugs failing to stop for police.

A large quantity of cash and drugs were recovered from within the vehicle.

Both occupants are believed to be prolific burglars who have been wanted by police for a spate of burglaries across Greater Manchester.

Sergeant Paul Lockett of GMP’s TVIU, said: “Our unit patrol the roads of Greater Manchester in marked and unmarked cars day and night, working with other teams across GMP to target those suspected of being involved in a wide range of crime with particular focus on burglary, robbery and vehicle crime.

“Across Greater Manchester, and beyond, officers proactively seek criminals and also act on intelligence from members of the public to drive down crime.

“We remain committed to doing everything in our power to crackdown on those who bring misery to our communities, helping to make Greater Manchester hostile for those intent on committing crime on our roads.”