A significant car theft operation bust, seven individuals have been arrested and two suspected stolen vehicles recovered during a swift police response in Oldham, Greater Manchester. The operation marks a major breakthrough in the ongoing battle against organised vehicle crime in the region.
Details of the Car Theft Operation Raid
At approximately 3:47 pm yesterday (09/02/2025), officers responded to a vigilant citizen’s report of suspicious activity around vehicles in the Newport Street area. The rapid response led to the discovery of what authorities believe to be a sophisticated car theft operation centre
Recovery and Arrests
Police discovered two Ford Fiesta vehicles inside a detached garage, along with multiple registration plates connected to other Ford Fiestas. The vehicles had been reported stolen both locally and in surrounding areas.
The operation resulted in the arrest of seven individuals:
- Four men (aged 60, 45, 39, and 32)
- Three women (aged 43, 33, and 27)
All suspects are currently in police custody for questioning. For the latest updates on this developing story, visit thesentinelcurrent.co.uk.
Police Response
Chief Inspector Ian Partington from Oldham’s Neighbourhood team provided insights into the operation: “We suspect this garage was being used to illegally disassemble and ‘chop up’ vehicles for parts, later selling them for profit. Crime scene investigators have been deployed to gather evidence, supporting our specialist vehicle examiners with their investigations.”
Impact on Local Community
The successful raid represents a significant victory in the ongoing fight against vehicle crime, as reported by thesentinelcurrent.co.uk. According to recent data from the National Vehicle Crime Database car theft operations have seen a concerning rise in urban areas.
Preventative Measures and Public Safety
Chief Inspector Partington underscored the importance of vehicle security, particularly for Ford Fiesta and Ford Transit van owners. The police recommend several preventative measures:
- Installing steering locks
- Using wheel clamps
- Removing valuables from vehicles
- Installing vehicle tracking systems
How to Report Suspicious Activity
Members of the public are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity:
- Emergency situations: Dial 999
- Non-emergency reports: Call 101
- Anonymous tips: Contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111
