A man from Bury has been arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle following a police operation in Rochdale.

Officers worked with other agencies to address concerns about off-road vehicles.

They carried out the work after people reported feeling threatened and having property damaged by people on them.

(Image: GMP)

During a police patrol yesterday, Saturday, at the junction of Catley Lane Head and Rooley Moor Road officers approached vehicles and spotted a quad bike with false plates.

Following this three men – aged 44, 42, and 37 – from Bury, Merseyside and Burnley, were arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle.

They were all community protection warnings, which imposed conditions preventing them from using off-road vehicles in a disruptive way.

(Image: GMP)

The quad bike was seized, along with two vans believed to be used in crime and an additional two off-road bikes which were inside the vans.

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Later in the day, community volunteers spotted a 4x4 vehicle breach police warning signs prohibiting off-road vehicles likely to cause alarm, distress, or annoyance to the public.

Officers stopped the driver on Woodhouse Lane and his vehicle was impounded.

The owner will now need to pay a fine if they wish to recover the vehicle.

Sargent Brendan Walsh, from Greater Manchester Police's Rochdale district, said: “We understand the prevalence of off-road vehicles in the moorland have caused distress and harm to residents, walkers, cyclists, horse riders as well as animals, and has damaged land, fencing and paths.

“I hope people realise the impact of their actions and think twice before using the area for a joyride.

(Image: GMP)

“The proactive action we’re taking to tackle this problem should send a strong preventative message: we will not tolerate off-road vehicles used for anti-social behaviour and illegal activity.

“Our robust approach, working collaboratively with partners and members of the public, is an example of how we strive to stamp out problems and reach tangible solutions for our communities.”