Homes across Rotherham raided in connection with suspected Land Rover thefts

POLICE carried out dawn raids on six houses this morning as part of an investigation into suspected vehicle thefts.

Officers searched the properties as part of Operation Duxford which is cracking down on so-called acquisitive crime.

A house in Ravenfield was among those targeted by officers who were investigating thefts of vehicles — particularly Land Rovers — and vehicle parts.

Officers in full protective gear used a chainsaw and a battering ram to break down the door of the house at about 7.30am.

Meanwhile, colleagues raiding a property in Rawmarsh seized a car and detained a male on suspicion of burglary.

Four other properties around the borough were searched as part of the operation.

Sgt Ashley Franklin, who led the Ravenfield operation, said: “This is a series of warrants in relation to serious acquisitive crime.

“There’s been information received that’s allowed South Yorkshire Police to get search warrants from the magistrates’ court.”

Sgt Franklin said the suspected thefts were linked to organised crime groups.

Officers connected to the operation are also cracking down on anti-social behaviour and drug use and are speaking to residents and business owners to offer crime prevention advice.

The operation also includes speeding operations and patrols with Rotherham Council.