Police raids as high value cars stolen in 'lock snap' burglaries

Police say there has been an increase in this type of burglary in the Worsley, Boothstown and Ellenbrook areas and today officers carried out a number of raids as part of Operation Breeze in a crackdown.

A number of arrests were made

Police say that burglars broke into homes by snapping the locks on front or rear doors. Once inside, they would steal vehicle keys and make off with high-value cars from people's driveways, often using Suron bikes for a quick getaway.

During today’s operation, officers executed a number of warrants that led to the arrest of four men on suspicion to commit burglary.

Among those arrested were one 21-year-old and three 19-year-olds, who are currently in custody for further questioning.

Five Suron bikes believed to be linked to these crimes were seized.

Detective Sergeant Kevin Oakes of the Salford Neighbourhood Crime Team said: "Today's arrests and seizures send a clear message that criminal activities like these will not be tolerated. By taking away the tools used by criminals, we disrupt their operations, and we will continue to identify, locate, and bring offenders to justice.

"Operation Breeze is one of many operations across the force, dedicated to keeping our communities safe, we will continue to work with our partners and the community to achieve justice.

"If you are concerned about any forms of criminality in your area or have information that you’d like to share with us, please call 101 or report online on our website: www.gmp.police.uk.

"Alternatively, you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers – anonymously – on 0800 555 111.”

Lock snapping involves breaking a cylinder in two by applying force and exposing the internal mechanism and such incidents have also been reported in Bolton.

Residents are urged to check doors are secure as burglars can break into homes by snapping locks.

Lock snapping involves breaking a cylinder in two by applying force and exposing the internal mechanism.

Police have offered tips to protect homes from lock snap burglaries:

•Adding additional locks to existing patio and French doors for extra security.

•Upgrade euro cylinder locks to an anti-snap cylinder lock with a three start rating under TS 007 or an anti-snap cylinder which has a solid secure diamond standard.

•Consider improving door handles as well and replace them with a two star rating under TS 007.

•Use a reputable lock replacement company preferably with a Master Locksmiths Association accreditation (www.locksmiths.co.uk)

•Fit sash jammers to your doors, which have also been proven to prevent burglaries - but check this will not invalidate any warranty on existing doors.

For more crime prevention advice: www.gmp.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention