Three people have been arrested after police uncovered a suspected ‘chop shop’ in Thrybergh
On Thursday 19 June, officers from Rotherham North’s Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) executed an intelligence-led warrant at a garage on Oldgate Lane, following reports from the local community linking the site to stolen vehicles.
Upon entering the premises, officers discovered what appeared to be a fully operational ‘chop shop’—a site used to dismantle stolen vehicles so that their parts can be sold illegally. Inside, they found a large collection of car parts and engines, believed to have been taken from stolen vehicles.
A 45-year-old man and a 17-year-old boy were arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods, while a 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft. All three individuals have since been released on bail as investigations continue.
Specialist vehicle crime experts are now working to confirm the origin of the recovered parts.
Inspector Carl Goodwin of Rotherham North NPT said: “We know the impact car theft can have on people, which is why it is vital that we work with other police forces to track stolen vehicles and dismantle these ‘chop shops’.”
“I hope this sends out a strong message to those trying to profit from stolen vehicles that we will use all the tools and resources available to crack down on this kind of criminality.”
He also praised the role of the public in bringing the operation to light: “Information shared by you—our local communities—is vital in unearthing operations like the one located on Oldgate Lane. Reports from members of the public help us build a better intelligence picture.”
