Lib Dems call for Operation Ironclad to tackle tool theft

Southport councillor and tradesperson backs national plans

3rd February 2026 - Councillor Mike Sammon has backed new Liberal Democrat proposals aimed at tackling tool theft and supporting local tradespeople in Southport.

The plans, known as Operation Ironclad, include a stronger specialist police focus on tool theft, tougher action against the resale of stolen tools through markets and online platforms, better anti-theft measures for vans, and a renewed emphasis on visible, community-based policing.

Cllr Sammon, who represents Cambridge Ward, said the proposals would support work already being done locally in Southport. Over the past year he has raised the issue at Sefton Council through a formal motion, written to the Police and Crime Commissioner, and helped organise and attend a tool-marking event with Merseyside Police PCSOs.

As a working tradesperson, he said the issue was personal.

“Too many tradespeople feel that when their tools are stolen it is not taken seriously enough. This is their livelihood, not a minor inconvenience. That is why it is time for Operation Ironclad to get ahead of this problem and make sure tool theft is treated with the seriousness it deserves.”

“Southport has a lot of self-employed tradespeople and small firms who keep our town running. I will continue raising awareness of this issue and pushing for firmer action so these national plans can be adopted locally.”

Cllr Sammon is pictured right at the tool-marking stall at CEF Southport last year.