Christmas clampdown nets 65 criminals

Chief Superintendent John O'Hare

Police in Rochdale arrested 65 burglars, robbers and thieves last week (29 November to 5 December) in its latest clampdown on offenders across the borough.

High impact enforcement activity saw officers make 19 raids on properties of suspected criminals to search for stolen goods.

The crackdown was part of the Force’s latest hard hitting operation geared to targeting thieves and was launched to curb a potential pre-Christmas rise in theft-related crime.

Over the week officers also visited 73 known offenders to check they were complying with bail and curfew conditions and deliver special Christmas cards warning them to stay out of trouble to stay out of prison. PCSOs and crime reduction advisors visited more than 389 homes to give crime prevention advice. They also distributed 126 free timer switches to residents in burglary hotspot areas to use to switch lights on at dusk to deter criminals.

Chief Superintendent John O’Hare for Rochdale Division said: “Over the last year criminals and law-abiding citizens have become well aware of our on-going commitment to bringing thieves to account for the misery they spread in our communities.

“This pre-Christmas operation has helped to take some of these criminals off our streets and sent a clear message to many others that to stay out of prison this Christmas they have to stay out of trouble.

“We will continue to target burglars, robbers and thieves into the New Year and residents can help by reporting suspicious activity to us either directly on 0161 872 5050 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“They can also help by locking all doors and windows, using their burglar alarm and leaving a light on during the late afternoon and early evening to deter thieves.

“We want everyone to enjoy a safe, peaceful and crime-free Christmas and New Year. Criminals who get in the way of this can expect a tough response from us.”