SUSPECTED stolen caravans, a quad bike and asbestos have been seized by police following raids at a travellers’ site.

About 70 officers raided the camp in Hall Lane, Moses Gate, yesterday morning. They seized three caravans, thought to be worth £15,000 to £25,000 each.

A portable compressor, understood to have been stolen from a van in Salford, was taken by police, along with a quad bike, also thought to be stolen.

Police also discovered a lorry full of asbestos, which has been sealed off and taken away for decontamination and disposal.

Insp Phil Spurgeon said the people on the site co-operated with the police.

He added: “Every community has a minority that engages in Crime and anti-social behaviour to the detriment of their own and other communities “We are responding to recent concerns about crime, anti-social behaviour and environmental issues associated with the caravan site.

“The scale of the operation involves the use of a large number of police and partner resources, which reflects the size and nature of the site and the wide range of issues being tackled.”

Insp Spurgeon said the scale of the operation meant innocent members of the community experiencing some disruption.

He said: “We apologise for that, but anticipate the vast majority of community members will be patient and understanding.

“These activities are part of longer-term partnership-based problem solving approaches to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour.”

Four people were arrested. One was wanted for an assault at a pub in Farnworth at the weekend. The other three were arrested in connection with the suspected stolen caravans.

Inspectors from the RSPCA checked animals on the site and were satisfied there were no welfare issues. HM Revenue and Customers checked 35 vehicles, for red diesel but none was found.

Anyone with information about crime and anti-social behaviour in the area should contact the Bolton South Neighbourhood Policing Team on 0161 856 5608 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.