AROUND £50,000-worth of stolen tools were recovered during a joint police operation at a car boot sale in Rainhan.

In response to concerns from tradespeople about a rise in tool thefts, officers from Grays Neighbourhood Policing Team (NPT) worked as part of the Met-led operation with Trading Standards to carry out a large search of the Willow Farm Car Boot Sale on Sunday, 6 April.

By using intelligence, and with the help of a dog that can sniff out items marked with forensic water, officers identified and seized around 1,000 suspected stolen tools.

Four men, aged between 40 and 60, from Hackney and Southend-on-Sea were arrested on suspicion of handling stolen goods.

A number of suspected stolen bikes, as well as cash, illegal vapes and other counterfeit goods were also seized.

Inspector Daniel Selby of Grays NPT, said: "Trading stolen or counterfeit goods is illegal and inexcusable, so we are working with our partners to disrupt supply lines and arrest those who are profiting from crime.

"Hard-working tradespeople rely on their tools to make a living and we appreciate how devastating the implications of a theft can be for victims and their families at a time when many people are struggling financially.

"Purchasing illegitimate goods only serves to line the pockets of the criminals, creates a market that inevitably leads to more offending, and can land the buyer in serious trouble."

Officers will work over the coming weeks to identify the tools and trace their original owners.

Police add: "Any tradespeople or those in possession of power tools are advised to mark their property, take photographs, and record serial numbers so that, in the event of theft, officers have more chance of returning property.

"Marking tools with SelectaDNA forensic water also helps officers identify stolen goods. We also advise reporting any thefts in a timely manner, providing as much detail as possible. Removing tools from your vehicles overnight will also help deter thieves.

"We urge the public not to buy goods you know or suspect to be stolen or counterfeit, as this feeds organised crime. If the price seems too good to be true, it could be the item is either stolen or fake. Buying goods you know or suspect to be stolen is a criminal offence.

"If you suspect anyone of selling stolen or counterfeit goods, you can report this to us online or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."