Burglaries on the up

Despite a fall in crime in Greater Manchester over the past year, the number of burglaries has increased.

The latest crime figures show that while there were 14,927 fewer victims of crime (a 5% reduction) in Greater Manchester in the past 12 months, domestic burglary increased by 10%.

Detective Chief Superintendent Russ Jackson, leading the initiative labelled Operation Storm, which tackles burglary, said: "We are taking direct action against the burglars that are blighting our communities. They have a tremendous impact on people's lives and this is a tough new response.

"Specialist officers with experience in investigating serious crime are using the same hi-tech systems, forensic skills and knowledge to arrest offenders and put them before the courts."

Across the region there were 376 fewer victims of robbery (a 5% reduction), 4,098 fewer victims of vehicle crime (down 9.46%) and 4,276 fewer victims of violent crime (down 8.5%).

Deputy Chief Constable Simon Byrne said: "Burglary is a top priority for GMP, which is why we are taking this action to make a real difference to communities.

"We face a challenging time ahead and need to continue to work together to reduce the opportunities for offenders and to bring them to justice."