89 burglars arrested in Halloween clampdown

Greater Manchester Police arrested 89 burglars and made 390 bail and curfew checks on known offenders in a three-day crackdown on criminals over Halloween.

High impact enforcement activity on all divisions across the Force saw officers stepping up the fight against burglary in anticipation of a seasonal increase in offences linked to the onset of darker evenings and Christmas.

Crime reduction advisors and PCSOs also visited more than 9,400 addresses across the county to advise residents to leave lights on during late afternoons and early evenings to deter burglars seeking empty properties to target.

The crackdown was part of Operation Storm that was set up in July 2009 to support divisions in reducing burglaries, robberies and car theft. Since then it has helped to make 3,258 arrests.

Officers say that in the 12 months to the end of October this year there was a 15 per cent reduction in burglaries when compared to the same period in the previous year. This means that there have been 3,393 fewer victims of burglary over that time.

They warn however that though burglaries continue to decrease residents need to stay on their guard to avoid falling victim to this distressing crime.

Detective Superintendent Mark Bell who leads Operation Storm said: “Burglary is a distressing crime that deprives victims of valued possessions and can leave them feeling frightened and vulnerable in their own homes.

“Through crackdowns such as this one we will continue to target these heartless criminals to stop them spreading misery in our communities.

“People can play their part by following simple crime reduction advice and reporting suspicious activity to us either directly on 0161 872 50 50 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“Recent research involving interviews with convicted burglars confirms that they love to work under cover of darkness to target empty properties. Leaving a light on can keep burglars guessing on whether your home is occupied and encourage them to give it a wide berth.

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