Greater Manchester Police have issued a warning to residents across Saddleworth following a series of vehicle thefts in recent weeks, with incidents reported in Lees, Delph, Uppermill, Grasscroft, and Denshaw. Officers are urging owners of Toyota and Nissan vehicles to take extra precautions after three cars were stolen since April 10, including a Toyota and two Nissans taken from Lees and Delph.

Police advise owners of these makes to consider additional security measures to reduce the risk of theft, such as steering locks, tracking devices, or garage parking. The warning is part of ongoing efforts to keep residents informed and prevent further incidents in the area. GMP have deployed additional patrols in response to the thefts, but no arrests have been made so far.

The recent thefts are part of a pattern of vehicle crime in Saddleworth. In a separate spate of thefts, two vehicles were stolen in the Saddleworth South area within 24 hours in February. The first theft was reported on February 13 from the Grove Road area of Uppermill, followed by another from Clough Lane in Grasscroft. These incidents prompted police to urge residents to be vigilant and secure their vehicles, reminding them to avoid leaving keys near doors.

Earlier in February, the Oldham borough police team reported five thefts from motor vehicles across Saddleworth on February 26 and 27. These thefts targeted various areas, highlighting the importance of vehicle security. Residents are reminded to always lock their vehicles and remove valuables from sight, as thieves often exploit opportunities. GMP have noted that many thefts occur overnight.

In addition, a series of crimes targeting four-wheel drive vehicles occurred in Denshaw over a weekend. A Land Rover Defender was stolen, another was stripped of valuable parts, and a third was damaged. PC Mark Clough of the Saddleworth North Policing Team circulated information through community associations and villages, emphasizing the need for extra precautions for high-value vehicles, such as using wheel clamps or immobilisers.

The repeated incidents have raised concerns among local residents, with many calling for increased police patrols. GMP have assured the community that they are taking the matter seriously and are conducting investigations into the thefts. Community forums have discussed ways to improve security, including Neighbourhood Watch schemes and sharing information on social media.

Police encourage residents to park in well-lit areas, lock doors and windows, and consider using additional security measures like steering locks or alarms. Community vigilance is key to preventing such thefts, and residents are asked to report any suspicious activity to GMP immediately. Information from the public is crucial for solving these crimes, and even small details can help.

Residents can contact GMP via 101 or the LiveChat service on the GMP website, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. For more information on vehicle security, visit the GMP website or speak to local PCSOs. GMP also offer free vehicle security marking events; residents are advised to check with their local policing team for upcoming dates.

Local councillors have also been briefed on the situation, and they are working with police to address the issue. Residents are encouraged to share the warning with neighbours, especially those with Toyota or Nissan vehicles. The community is urged to remain vigilant and report any concerns.