Crime success for GMP

Greater Manchester is continuing to reap the benefits of having more than 100 extra police officers out on the streets.

Last week Greater Manchester Police reported to the police authority progress on the Force's operational priorities and targets. The targets were set by Greater Manchester Police Authority (GMPA) in return for an increase in the police precept which has allowed GMP to put more police officers in front-line neighbourhood policing roles.

The report shows that the Force is either meeting or close to meeting all but one of the performance targets.

There have been notable successes, including very significant reductions in firearms discharges, cash in transit robberies and bank robberies. Personal robbery is also down.

Burglary still remains a challenge for the force, but public satisfaction with the Force is steadily increasing.

Chief Constable Peter Fahy said: "We have made real progress in some areas. I'm particularly pleased to see such a big reduction in firearms discharges. There are young people walking the streets today who would otherwise be dead were it not for the decisive work GMP has taken through operations like Cougar and the great work of the Xcalibre Task Force.

"I am still concerned about burglary levels, but am confident Operation Guardian, which is our response to burglary, is beginning to hit home. Guardian is all about the Force taking action against burglars, as well as asking people to ensure they take simple steps to deter them.

"Most burglars will be put off if you keep lights on, doors and windows locked and use a burglary alarm.

"Ultimately, targets are secondary to the service we provide and it is heartening to see a steady increase in satisfaction levels from victims of crime."