Three men arrested after tools used in thefts found in vehicle in Royton

Three men have been arrested after police stopped a vehicle and discovered tools and equipment believed to be used in thefts.

Officers made the shock discovery after stopping the vehicle on Rochdale Road, Royton at around 2.35am today (April 9, 2026) 

Within the car were numerous tools and items – including balaclavas, winches, jamming equipment, and false plates. 

The three men in the vehicle aged 37, 41, and 42 – were arrested on suspicion of going equipped. They remain in custody for questioning. 

The items will be assessed in due course. 

The work comes as part of GMP’s wider work in tackling burglaries, vehicle crime, and robberies within local areas. 

This sees officers conducting all manner of work – from proactive patrols to early-morning warrants to preventative work within communities. 

Detective Inspector Kelly Paterson, from GMP’s Oldham district, said: “This was a great piece of work by officers early this morning, who were able to secure three arrests and potentially prevent any crime from occurring. 

“We are of course investigating all of the circumstances, but this work forms part of our commitment to tackling criminals who would seek to disrupt the lives of the law-abiding public. 

“If anyone has any information with regards to criminality in their area, I would urge them to contact us directly, or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously.”