Five men between the ages of 20 and 45 were all arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to steal motor vehicles after Police carried out early morning raids at five addresses in Farnworth, Bolton, as part of an investigation into stolen work vans in the area.
Officers have also seized a quantity of drugs containing all classes of illicit substances and other items officers believe were used to steal vehicles.
Detective Sergeant Matt Quayle of GMP’s Bolton district, said: “This morning’s warrants are the culmination of a thorough investigation by our Neighbourhood Crime Team.
“Most of us know someone who has been a victim of vehicle crime of some sort, and we understand how disruptive this type of crime can be, not just financially but also emotionally, and we are focussing our efforts to tackle those who blight communities.
“I’d like to thank the community for their support in reporting information to us means we can play a part in making local neighbourhoods safer and I urge the public to continue keeping this open line of communication with police about criminal activities or expressing their concerns through contacting us directly via live-chat, speaking to your local neighbourhood officer or anonymously through Crimestoppers.
“Every bit of information, no matter how small, contributes to our investigations across Greater Manchester and could support us in tackling vehicle crime at its root.”
