Bonzer Boot Sale Raid: Police Seize Stolen Work Tools in Romford

Romford’s Warren Farm was the scene of a major police operation this week, as officers cracked down on a suspected black market for stolen trade tools.

Stolen Goods Recovered

Havering Police executed a warrant at the site’s popular “Bonzer Boot Sale” on Sunday, uncovering a haul of suspected stolen power tools and work equipment. The raid, part of an ongoing effort to combat van break-ins and tool theft, led to multiple items being seized for forensic examination.

Crackdown on Organised Crime

Authorities believe the boot sale was being used as a front to offload stolen goods, often taken from tradespeople’s vans across East London and Essex. A 37-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of handling stolen property and later released under investigation while inquiries continue.

Tradespeople Urged to Stay Vigilant

Police are urging van owners to take extra precautions, including:

• Marking tools with UV pens or engraving
• Removing valuables overnight
• Installing van safes or GPS trackers

PC Matt Reynolds of Havering Police said: “Tool theft has a devastating impact on hardworking tradespeople. We’re targeting not just thieves, but the markets that enable this crime.”

Community Response

Local tradesmen welcomed the raid, with one plumber telling the Recorder: “These thieves are destroying livelihoods. It’s about time they hit these markets hard.”

The operation follows a surge in van break-ins across Havering, with power tools being a prime target for criminals reselling through car boot sales and online platforms.

Got information? Contact Havering Police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

🔒 Security Tip: Register tools at Immobilise to help police identify stolen items.

(Original source: Romford Recorder, adapted for clarity/brevity)