Multiple arrests as firearms and weapons removed from Greater Manchester streets

Some of the guns handed in to GMP as part of a previous firearms surrender scheme

Greater Manchester Police has intensified its crackdown on firearms-related crime - with officers making 17 arrests across the region and and seizing a significant number of dangerous weapons.

The force leads the North West in firearm recoveries, accounting for 58% of all weapons seized in the region from 2020 to 2023.

Over the past three years, GMP has confiscated 232 firearms from criminals, with some of the region's most dangerous offenders sentenced to a combined total of nearly 500 years in prison.

Detective Superintendent Joe Harrop, head of serious organised crime at GMP, said the proactive measures are saving lives. He said: “Our unwavering commitment to targeting individuals involved in serious violence and firearms-related crime remains strong.

"We have managed to arrest 13 individuals in relation to three discharges in Oldham that we believe may be linked and have taken a large number of dangerous weapons off the streets.”

While the recent arrests are tied to incidents in Oldham, the operation highlights a wider focus across Greater Manchester, ensuring that communities throughout the area benefit from these targeted efforts. GMP’s data underscores that each weapon seized represents a potentially life-saving intervention or a firearms-related incident averted.

“There has been a rise in firearms incidents around specific parts of Oldham, and our investigations into these remain ongoing, with specialist investigators and resources dedicated to undertaking a number of warrants and other enforcement activity across Greater Manchester,” DS Harrop said.

The force reassured the public that most firearms incidents are targeted, rather than posing a general risk, but acknowledged the impact on residents' sense of safety. “Although most firearm incidents are targeted and do not pose a broader risk to the public, we understand the fear and distress they cause in our communities.

"None of the firearms discharges across Greater Manchester this year have proved to be fatal.”

To tackle the issue, GMP is ramping up enforcement. DS Harrop explained, “Our focus will continue to be on intensifying our actions, making vital arrests, executing warrants, recovering firearms, and holding those responsible for the use, supply, and modification of firearms in Greater Manchester accountable.”

Local communities are being urged to support GMP’s efforts by providing information on firearms. Anyone with information can contact GMP on 101 or use the LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk. In emergencies, always dial 999.

For those wishing to remain anonymous, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted at 0800 555 111.