Burglars beware – Middleton police ‘spinning’ into action

Police in Middleton are set to launch Operation Spin, a move that hopes to tackle the rising number of burglaries in the area.

Crime hot-spots will be patrolled by Neighbourhood Policing Teams between 7pm and 10pm and officers will also offer crime prevention advice.

So far the operation has proved to be a success, resulting in 31 arrests for a number of offences in the area, and a hundred people have been stopped and searched by officers.

“Thieves use various methods to break into people’s homes including forcing doors down, smashing windows and the hook and cane method, which is when offenders put something through the letterbox to reach out for the car keys on view,” stated Inspector Gary Hall of Middleton’s Neighbourhood Policing Team.

“Four cars were stolen as a result of burglaries and the message I would really send out to residents is to take care of your homes and your Christmas presents during the holidays.”

‘Spin’ is part of the force-wide campaign ‘Operation Guardian’ which employs the Tactical Aid Unit and Mounted teams along with dog units to cut down burglaries. This will be a relief to the residents of Middleton, where reported burglaries have been on the rise since the start of December this year (2008)

Teams of detectives have also looked into a series of robberies in the Middleton and Heywood area.

Detective Chief Inspector Mark Bell said: “Burglary is a top priority for the Rochdale division. Through the launch of Operation Spin we aim to disrupt and deter thieves and make sure the festive season is a safe and happy one for residents.”

Earlier this week, residents in Rochdale were urged to combat crime as it was revealed that known burglaries in the area totalled 494 since September with a quarter of these being due to the owner’s negligence with security.

“We would also encourage people to be vigilant when storing their car keys. Residents should never leave their car or house keys on view either near window sills, in porches or in hallways. Putting keys away out of sight, preferably in a locked drawer or cabinet, will make life harder for thieves. Security lighting at doors and windows and letterbox visor guards are also good deterrents.” Detective Chief Inspector Bell added.

Anyone with any information about domestic burglaries can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050.