GMP launches biggest ever ANPR operation

Greater Manchester Police is running its biggest ever operation to take criminals off the roads

Greater Manchester Police is running its biggest ever operation to take criminals off the roads.

Over 250 officers in more than 100 vehicles are using ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) technology to monitor the region’s main routes, and so far six people have been arrested and 14 vehicles seized for not being licensed, insured or taxed.

In addition, three drivers have been stopped and searched, four summonsed to court, and 32 traffic offences have been recorded for matters such as speeding, not wearing a seatbelt and using a mobile while driving.

Twenty five motorists have also been advised on issues such as their speed and manner of driving.

Superintendent Craig Thompson, who is overseeing the operation, said: “We will not allow the safety of our roads to be compromised by criminals, and the purpose of today’s operation is to disrupt illegal activity and deny offenders the use of the roads.

“ANPR cameras are used to detect vehicles connected to crime, or those being driven illegally, and can scan more than 3,000 number plates an hour. There is a strong link between the illegal use of vehicles on the road and other types of serious crime, and we will use all equipment available to bring offenders to justice.

“Criminals can be assured that this is not just a one-off operation. Our officers patrol the roads 365 days of the year and will continue to target them.”