Autumn crackdown brings down crime

Autumn crackdown brings down crime

An autumn crackdown on crime has resulted in the arrests of some of Greater Manchester’s most active offenders, and seen notable reductions in burglary, robbery and theft from person offences across the region.

Between 21 October and 5 November 2013, Greater Manchester Police carried out its latest blitz on offenders under Operation Resolute, as the dark nights traditionally see an increase in crime.

Throughout the two weeks officers arrested 197 people, including one of Greater Manchester’s most wanted offenders who was arrested in north Manchester on suspicion of burglary and robbery offences.

Fifty five of those arrested were known burglars, and police visited persistent criminals to let them know they were being monitored.

Greater Manchester Police’s Assistant Chief Constable Ian Wiggett said: “This operation was not just about arrests. It was about the work of our officers to disrupt criminals and put an end to their undeserved lifestyles.

“We maintained a high-profile presence in crime hotspots to deter offenders, and discouraged antisocial behaviour by working with partner agencies to make young people aware of alternative activities on offer.

“Also, by holding crime prevention events in the community we were able to show Greater Manchester’s residents methods to protect themselves and their homes from criminals. Doing this ensures that they are not another target and means we are able to further bring down crime in the region.”

Comparing the period in which the operation ran with the same period last year, there were 28 fewer burglaries, 32 fewer robberies, a reduction of 16 per cent, and 39 fewer theft from person offences, a 15 per cent drop.

There were also 124 fewer incidents of antisocial behaviour compared to 2012.

Activities carried out by police included increased patrols and surgeries in crime hotspots, licensing checks on businesses selling fireworks, and the use of ad vans to raise public awareness of wanted offenders.

Members of the public are reminded to register their valuables at immobilise.com which is a free online national database that police can use to compare registered items against property that has been found or recovered from suspected criminals. It can then be returned to the rightful owners.