Police recover £30,000 of suspected stolen farm machinery

A tractor, agricultural trailer and other suspected stolen machinery worth around £30,000 have been recovered during a police raid on a farm in Rochdale.

A 53-year-old man was arrested during the warrant in Milnrow on Monday 7 September, while seven dogs and five suspected offensive weapons were also seized.

Greater Manchester Police said officers from Rochdale Neighbourhood Policing Team carried out the search at around 9am as part of an investigation into stolen farm and building machinery.

The team was supported by dog liaison officers, the National Construction and Agricultural Theft Team (NCATT) and drone units.

During the search, officers recovered a tractor, agricultural trailer and other farming equipment believed to be stolen.

The operation comes during a national week of action on rural crime, running from 6 to 11 September and highlighting offences including machinery and fuel theft, livestock worrying, fly-tipping, poaching and wildlife crime.

Rural crime cost the UK £41.5 million in 2025, according to NFU Mutual, down 6% from £44.1 million the previous year.

However, the insurer warned that thefts involving quad bikes, ATVs, agricultural vehicles and livestock continued to rise.

Machinery theft can leave farm businesses facing substantial replacement costs and disruption, particularly when essential equipment is taken during busy periods.

The 53-year-old man arrested in Rochdale was detained on suspicion of handling stolen goods, possessing an offensive weapon in a private dwelling and breaching a court order prohibiting him from keeping dogs.

Inspector Clem Jones, from Rochdale Neighbourhood Policing Team, said the operation highlighted the impact rural crime can have on farming communities.

“Today's warrant serves as a reminder that rural crime will not be tolerated,” he said.

“It is an often-overlooked issue that can have a significant impact on communities and the livelihoods of those who live and work in the countryside.”

Jones said machinery theft in particular could have a damaging effect on farmers, landowners and rural businesses.

“Preventing and detecting these crimes remains a priority for Greater Manchester Police and our partners,” he said.

NCATT is a specialist UK policing unit focused on theft involving agricultural machinery, construction plant, quad bikes, tractors, excavators and other high-value equipment.

It works alongside rural crime teams and police forces across the country to investigate machinery theft and help recover stolen equipment.

Police also seized seven dogs from the Rochdale property after welfare concerns were identified relating to some of the animals.

All seven are being cared for while enquiries continue.

Jones said officers and partner agencies had acted on concerns raised by the local community.

“We know there is significant public interest in activity at this location and today's warrant demonstrates our commitment to tackling criminality and protecting the wider community,” he said.

Greater Manchester Police said enquiries remain ongoing.