Burglaries up in Greater Manchester

Latest figures show incidents of domestic burglary have increased across Greater Manchester.

There were 705 more victims of the crime between July and September last year compared with the same period in 2007.

Across the region there were 5471 burglaries, up from 4766 between July and September 2007, a near 15% increase.

"Burglary remains one of Greater Manchester Police's top priorities, which is why we saw the launch of Operation Guardian in October 2008 as a response to the increase in domestic burglaries," said Assistant Chief Constable Dave Thompson. "We have increased officers on the streets day and night advising residents about how they can protect themselves and their homes. It is a fact that one in three burglaries happens because houses have been left insecure. Homeowners can play their part by not leaving doors or windows unlocked or open."

Despite the increase in burglaries, overall crime in Greater Manchester has gone down by 2%, with 71348 incidents in the 2008 period compared with 73113 the previous year. Incidences of robbery, vehicle crime and violence against the person offences were all slightly down.

Assistant Chief Constable Thompson continued: "The figures from July to September 2008 show that crime continues to fall in many areas but there is still more work to do. We will continue to work closely with our partners and the people who live in our neighbourhoods to ensure further crime reductions.

"We are pleased that the figures show the total number of violent crimes is falling, and robbery and car crime are down once again, which is excellent news, but we still have challenges ahead.

”I acknowledge that the economic downturn may well lead to significant challenges for policing but I also feel confident that we have never been in a better position to deal with these challenges.

”It is vital that we make residents feel safe and confident that the quality of service they receive from officers is the very best it can be. Our commitment to neighbourhood policing means that Greater Manchester Police has a visible and responsive presence in every neighbourhood to act as a deterrent to thieves, disrupt criminal activity and reassure residents living in vulnerable areas.”