‘Grand’ result for Police burglary operation

Date published: 15 October 2009

Greater Manchester Police hit the 1,000 fewer burglaries mark today (Thursday 15 October) when comparing the period since 1 April this year to the same period in 2008.

This 8.5% decrease comes at a time when many forces across the country have experienced increases of up to 10% in the last 18 months.

The news comes in the week the force vowed to continue the high impact tactics that started under Operation Storm this summer to reduce burglaries and increase convictions.
In the first four days of this renewed offensive they have already arrested 380 people and made 123 raids on the properties of suspected criminals.

Police are warning the public not to let down their guard however as the next few months present seasonal opportunities for burglars to operate under the cover of darkness and take advantage of homes bursting with presents bought for Christmas.

By following simple advice such as locking doors and windows, using alarms when you go out or retire for the night and leaving lights, preferably connected to timer switches on residents can significantly reduce their chances of falling prey to callous crooks. One in three burglaries are still down to people leaving doors and windows open meaning burglars can just walk in and help themselves.

Police say a key component of this success has been the information provided by the public on suspicious activity. Information from Crimestoppers has increased by up to a third through Operation Storm and officers are keen for residents to keep it coming in, either directly to them on 0161 872 50 50 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Advances in forensic practices and investigation techniques adapted from dealing with major incidents are also playing a vital part in taking the fight against burglary to the offenders.

Chief Superintendent Russ Jackson who is leading Operation Storm said: “Though officers are pleased to see statistics such as these what really gives them job satisfaction is that there are more than a thousand families out there whose lives have not been blighted by this horrible crime.

“We are working hard to ensure that burglars are in no doubt aware that we are on their case and if they offend they will be bought to justice. Importantly these successful operations provide reassurance to the law-abiding people of our county and increase their confidence in local officers.

“We are winning the battles but the war continues and I would urge the public to continue providing information to us directly or anonymously through Crimestoppers and follow the simple advice given here to keep themselves and their property safe.”