Atherton Online

A recent clampdown on burglars, robbers and thieves has resulted in Greater Manchester Police’s Wigan Division arresting 74 offenders. 

As part of Operation Storm, this latest crackdown involved officers carrying out 17 
search warrants, resulting in arrests and the recovery of stolen property. Checks were also made to ensure criminals were complying with their bail and curfew conditions.  While visits were made to persistent criminals and those recently released from prison to check on their activities. 

Officers from burglary, robbery and car crime teams were supported by neighbourhood policing teams and specialist officers from the mounted, dog, tactical aid and road policing units in this latest clean-up.  Court Enforcement Officers also arrested offenders for non-payment of fines. 

PCSOs visited hundreds of homes in crime hotspot areas to give crime reduction advice and warn motorists using at-risk car parks to remove valuables and lock vehicles. 

Crime prevention days led by PCSOs were held inside the foyer of Sainsbury’s and Currys at Parsonage Retail Park, Leigh.  Shoppers received free crime prevention advice and were given reminders and tips about how to avoid becoming a victim of burglary or car crime this summer.  Free giveaways in the form of fridge magnets and marker pens were provided and people could also take personal items such as Sat Navs and mobile phones to be property marked.  PCSOs also invited the public to discuss any crime issues in their local area. 

Detective Chief Inspector Robert Tonge said: “We made determined efforts during Operation Storm to ensure that thieves in our area were brought to account for their crimes. 

“Through targeting them in their homes, in our communities and on the streets we have made significant progress in reducing all forms of criminal activity and helped offenders make the choice between going straight or going straight to prison. 

“I can assure law-abiding and law-breaking citizens that it does not end here.  We will continue to work to reduce burglary, robbery and vehicle crime and bring offenders to justice over the coming months. 

“I urge residents to play their part in the fight against these criminals by refusing to buy goods they suspect have been stolen and reporting their suspicions to us either directly on 0161 872 5050 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”