Nine arrested in crime crackdown

Officers being briefed for the crime crackdown operation

Police arrested nine people as part of a crackdown on crime in Rochdale over the weekend.

Raids were carried out on two addresses in a bid to target offenders suspected of being involved in drug dealing, burglary, violent crime and anti-social behaviour. 

Police launched the crackdown in anticipation of a possible increase in criminals operating under cover of darkness as the dark nights draw in.

The operation involved more than 100 officers, Police Community Support Officers and staff from licensing.

The crackdown on 29 October 2010 saw a 44 per cent reduction of all crime compared to the same time last year and a 20 per cent drop in antisocial behaviour.

Suspected criminals were arrested for a range of offences, including possession of drugs, affray and drink driving. The crackdown also saw 27 stop searches made as well as 24 stop and accounts and two vehicles were seized for no insurance.

Police adopted a zero tolerance approach to people drinking in a public place, which is banned under local bye laws. Visits were also made to the town’s licensed premises to ensure they complied with the conditions of their license.

Officers from the Rochdale North and Rochdale South Neighbourhood Policing Teams patrolled the areas of Spotland and Falinge, Milkstone and Deeplish and central Rochdale and home visits were made to known offenders to ensure that they were complying with court and bail conditions.

Chief Inspector Michelle Hughes for Rochdale Division, said: “Through this operation we have targeted the issues that concern residents the most which are drug dealing, alcohol-fuelled anti-social behaviour, burglary, car crime and theft.

“As part of our service promise we have shown offenders that crime will not be tolerated in our town and reassured the people of Rochdale that we have taken their concerns seriously and have targeted the people causing misery in their community.

“This sort of operation, as well as the day-to-day neighbourhood policing, is all geared to making our communities safer, more pleasant place to live, work and grow up in.

“Can I also remind everyone about simple crime prevention measures that can be made ahead of Bonfire Night and the clocks going back. This period can lead to an increase in burglaries as thieves use the cover of darkness to target empty homes when people go out for the evening.

“Leaving a light on, using timer switches, setting your burglar alarm and shutting and locking all doors and windows could save you coming home to a nasty shock.”

If you have information on anyone who may be committing crime in your area, call police on 0161 872 5050 or for more information visit gmp.police.uk.

Rochdale Online reporter Laura Wild joined officers for the Super Vortex operation read what she saw here: http://www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/48769/operation-vortex