Police Appeal After Lock-Snap Burglaries in Littleborough

Police are appealing for information following two lock snap burglaries in Littleborough during the early hours of Tuesday 21 January 2026.

The incidents took place between 1:30am and 3am on Spen Fold and Riverstone Bridge. In both cases, offenders gained entry to the properties by snapping the lock barrels on exterior doors, a method commonly associated with targeting homes where vehicles are parked on driveways.

Officers from the Rochdale Neighbourhood Crime Team believe the properties were specifically targeted for the vehicles outside the homes.

As part of their investigation, CCTV enquiries have identified a dark-coloured Volkswagen Golf R travelling on Riverstone Bridge at approximately 2:16am. Police are keen to speak with the driver, or anyone who knows who was driving the vehicle at the time, as they believe the occupant(s) could assist with their enquiries.

Residents in the area are also being urged to check CCTV, doorbell footage and dashcams for any suspicious activity during the early hours of that morning.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101 or via Live Chat on the Greater Manchester Police website, quoting either

CRI/06PP/0001301/26 or CRI/06PP/0001283/26.

Police have also reminded residents to consider additional security measures, such as anti-snap locks, door reinforcement and motion-activated lighting, to help protect their homes.