Police used a phone-finding app to locate property stolen from a car within just 30 minutes of its being pinched.
A mobile phone and a handbag had been stolen from a vehicle in Middle Lane, Clayton.
Police used a phone-finding mobile application to locate it and the handbag was also found nearby.
Within half an hour of the theft on Tuesday, three men, aged 38, 39 and 40, had been arrested on suspicion of theft from motor vehicle.
They were later released on bail pending further enquiries.
Inspector Andrew Croasdale, who leads the team, said: “These quick arrests show that we take thefts from motor vehicles very seriously and highlights the importance of having officers in the right place at the right time.
“This incident also serves as a reminder to people not to leave valuables in their vehicle when it is unattended. Or to keep them well hidden if necessary.”
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