Two suspected family gold burglars arrested in Rochdale

Family gold burglary

Officers responded to a 999 call from members of the public of reports that a burglary was in progress at a property in Meanwood in Rochdale at around 4.30pm on Monday (25 March 2024).

Officers raced to the address and with help from specialist teams and four-legged colleagues, searches inside and outside the property were conducted. A man in his 30s was located and was quickly arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary.

Another man, also in his 30s, is believed to have fled the address and after a short foot chase he was subsequently arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary after being found by officers hiding in a bush nearby.

An axe, machete and plastic bag full of family gold in the garden were seized and will be taken for forensic examination.

Superintendent Lucy Smallwood of GMP’s Rochdale district, said: “Family gold is usually high purity, high-value gold jewellery – often bought as wedding gifts which hold significant sentimental value, having been passed down through generations.

“I’d like to thank members of the public that phoned 999 after spotting suspicious behaviour and remind those in communities across Rochdale to keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary that is happening on your street.

“We are doing all we can by ensuring that we have proactive patrols in hotspot areas, but as always, the support of our communities is vital in helping us bring these people to justice.

“Please contact us if you see anyone acting suspiciously in your area, or if you know anything about burglary and the subsequent sale of stolen goods."

Anyone with information that will help bring burglars and handlers of stolen goods to justice is encouraged to contact police either via the LiveChat or reporting function on the GMP website or by calling 101.

You can also pass on information anonymously through CrimeStoppers by calling 0800 555 111. Always dial 999 in an emergency.