GMP keeps the heat on criminals this summer

GMP keeps the heat on criminals this summer

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Greater Manchester Police (GMP) is running a seasonal campaign to keep the heat on criminals this summer.

Recent national statistics show that crime is continuing to fall, and GMP is determined to maintain this trend over the holiday period.

Operation Resolute will see warrants being executed at the homes of priority offenders, and mobile ad-vans used across the region to name and shame criminals who are still wanted.

In addition, frequent visits will be made to probationers’ homes to see if they are complying with licence conditions, and checks will be run at scrap dealers’ premises to ensure that stolen metal is not being bought or sold.

The operation will also see neighbourhood policing teams reminding residents not to tempt burglars by leaving doors and windows open for long periods in the hot weather, and advising on ways to keep sheds and garages secure too.

Chief Superintendent John O’Hare of GMP’s Specialist Operations Branch said: “This operation is about maintaining the heat we put on criminals, so if you think you are wanted by police then expect a forceful ‘knock’ on your door.

“Officers from all divisions will be targeting offenders who threaten the wellbeing of communities, and our tactical aid, traffic and mounted units will be out supporting local officers during the week of action. This work will be complemented by regular high-visibility patrols to provide community reassurance.

“With the longer days and warmer weather at this time of year we generally see an upturn in antisocial behaviour and acquisitive crime such as burglary – particularly through people leaving windows and doors open or sheds and garages unlocked after spending time outside. We are therefore asking people to look out for each other and take some simple crime prevention measures to safeguard their belongings. Finally, I would urge people to report antisocial behaviour to their local neighbourhood teams, whose numbers are listed on our website, so we can deal with it at the earliest opportunity.”

Some of the activity being carried out under Operation Resolute involves police working closely with councils, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and other agencies as part of the Safe4Summer campaign.

This aims to address the expected rise in antisocial behaviour over the school holidays and keep young people safe by getting them involved in fun and exciting activities where they live.

Pupils across Greater Manchester have been made aware of the consequences of antisocial behaviour, and told about the website www.safe4summer.com which gives information on a host of fun activities happening in their area over the holidays.

Police and partners are directing young people towards the activities listed on the site, as well as maintaining a strong presence in antisocial behaviour hotspots and closely monitoring those with a history of causing disruption. Details of young people causing trouble will be passed on to the councils’ neighbourhood teams, so that youth workers can intervene if necessary.

Underage drinking is one of the main factors causing antisocial behaviour, and so officers will seize illegally purchased alcohol, work with Trading Standards to target premises who sell to under 18s, and take firm action against adults who buy drink for young people.

Police will also crack down on the illegal use of off-road motorbikes, which tends to be more of a problem over summer, and offenders risk having bikes seized or even crushed.