Today, the UK Government has announced new measures to ‘crackdown on domestic abusers on a large scale’.

Three areas across the UK have been chosen to take part in a pilot scheme to test the new measures and support systems. GMP can officially announce that it has been chosen to pilot the new measures across the Greater Manchester area.

The Home Office and Ministry of Justice will pilot the new Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders in Greater Manchester, Gwent and three London boroughs (Croydon, Bromley, and Sutton), with the Metropolitan Police, British Transport Police, and other criminal justice partners. 

The new cross-jurisdictional order will provide flexible, longer-term protection for victims. The court will be able to impose requirements such as attendance to perpetrator behaviour change programmes, alongside electronic monitoring and making it mandatory for offenders to notify the police of name and address changes. Breach of any requirement will be a criminal offence, resulting in up to 5 years in prison, a fine or a combination of both.

Police forces across the UK will also be required to proactively highlight and reiterate who the most dangerous domestic abusers are in their force area and prevent them from committing further crimes. The Home Office are also working with police forces to create an assessment tool that police can use to identify domestic abusers who are most likely to commit greatest harm, including those without convictions.

Coercive and controlling behaviour will be put on par with physical violence, and offenders that are sentenced to a year or more for controlling and coercive behaviour will be recorded on the ‘Violent and Sex Offender register’, alongside other dangerous domestic abuse perpetrators.

Violence against women & girls will also be classified as a national threat for policing and will be added as a strategic policing requirement for the first time, being treated as seriously as threats like terrorism, serious and organised crime, and child sexual abuse.

Enhanced protection for victims of domestic abuse will be enforced to ensure they receive the correct support for their needs. The ‘Ask ANI’ (Action Needed Immediately) scheme is already in operation in over 5,000 pharmacies across 88 towns, cities, and villages across the UK.

An additional 18 centres across the UK will be recognised as safe spaces for victims to receive emergency help if they are victims of abuse and will be guided to safe spaces and offered appropriate support from the police or support services.

Detective Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, Head of Public Protection at GMP said:

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“We’re delighted that today the Home Office have announced that GMP Has been chosen as one of three pilot forces for the new domestic abuse protection orders. GMP have been chosen as a pilot force in recognition of the significant improvements we have made in our arrangements towards domestic abuse.

“In the last 12 months alone, we have more than doubled the amount of domestic abuse violence protective notices that we have issued. There will no longer need to be violence involved to meet the rounds for an order to be issued. This will particularly strengthen our opportunities around coercive control and can be used all types of domestic abuse whether it be physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, or financial.

“The pilot will be a joint endeavour between Greater Manchester Police, the Crown Prosecution Service, Courts, Greater Manchester Combined Authority and local authorities across Greater Manchester. We anticipate that this pilot will be officially launched in June 2023. We will ensure that we maximise every opportunity that this gives us to better protect victims and reassure the public that we’re all working together to improve our response to domestic abuse.

“If you are a victim of domestic abuse, know someone who is or has been affected by domestic abuse or violence, we can support you. We would urge those who are being domestically abused in any form to contact us directly. GMP can also put you in touch with other support organisations that understand your specific needs. Do not suffer in silence, you are not alone.”

 

To report Domestic Abuse to Greater Manchester Police, please call 101 or report using the online reporting tool on our website: www.gmp.police.uk

Always dial 999 in an emergency.

If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service on 18001 101.

Below you’ll find a list of support organisations who can also support you:

Greater Manchester Domestic Abuse Helpline are open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm, except bank holidays. For anyone experiencing domestic abuse. Includes a language service and advice for the LGBT community.

End the Fear includes information on local help all over Greater Manchester.

Wigan and Leigh Dias drop-in centre works with women and men who are experiencing or recovering from domestic violence and abusive relationships and helps them to regain control of the situation.

Greater Manchester Police are investigating two assaults reported to have taken place this morning (Monday 20 February 2023) at the Freehold Tram Stop and Morrisons area of Hollinwood in Oldham respectively. These assaults are believed to be connected and involved two females.

No arrests have been made at this time but detectives are conducting further enquiries.

Officers have now released the image of a man they wish to speak to in connection with the assaults and who they believe could assist with enquiries. If you have any information that could help identify this man – including if you have CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage – please get in touch.

You can do so by calling 0161 856 8891 or 0161 856 8999 quoting incident number 891 of 20.02.2023.

Alternatively you can call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Khalil Mohammed (11/03/1982) of Alicia Drive received a total of nine years seven months last week at Minshull Street Crown Court, for possession with intent to supply class A drugs, namely heroin, as well as three counts of driving whilst disqualified.

The court heard how, on the 8 September 2022, officers observed Mohammed going to and from a Citroen Berlingo van. He was seen driving the van back and forth from his home address and kept accessing the rear of the vehicle.

PNC checks on Mohammed revealed that he had been disqualified from driving on the 18 March 2022, a ban which should have lasted until 17 December 2022.

He was arrested a short time later, on Thursday 8 September 2022 and was found to be in possession of a set of keys for the Citroen Berlingo van, which was located further up Alicia Drive.

On searching the van, police discovered - secreted within the body of the van - 11 rectangular/square blocks and seven lozenge-shaped brown parcels.

When tested, these parcels were found to contain approximately 19 kilos of heroin – with a street value of £1.9 million.

DC Robert O’Brien of Serious and Organised Crime (SOCG) said:

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“This was a great result today. A significant amount of heroin has been stopped from hitting the streets and a dangerous drug dealer locked up.

“Greater Manchester Police are dedicated to stopping drug dealers in their tracks, before their ‘product’ becomes available to communities, and we would urge anyone who has any information regarding drug activities taking place in their area, to contact us.

“We can be contacted via our website, gmp.police.uk or by dialling 101. Information can also be passed anonymously through the independent charity – Crimestoppers – on 0800 555 111.”

 

At the end of February, Josh Tyldsley, host of the Open Spot Podcast, will be undertaking a coast to coast challenge walking from St. Bees coast in Cumbria to Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire.

He will be walking for 14 days consecutively, wild camping on 13 nights to raise much needed cash for mental health charity Manchester Mind.

You can donate via GoFundMe : Link

Josh said:

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"Since I was at school, I’ve always loved being outdoors and adventure sports. I remember going rock climbing and walking on school trips and falling in love with it. A few years ago I decided to invest more of my time and money into it, and I started buying camping and hiking equipment.

"Around this time I also started my YouTube and Instagram Podcast accounts called ‘Open Spot Camping’ to promote and share my love for the outdoors, and encourage more people to get involved. I normally wild camp once a week and try to walk every day.

"This however will be the biggest challenge I’ve faced yet, as I’ve never done a long distance hike like this before, especially not alone. I’m so excited for this challenge, but I know it might be one of the hardest things I’ve ever done."

 

When asked of his motivations for Fundraising for Manchester Mind, Josh said:

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"Throughout my life, I’ve struggled with depression and anxiety, and I really want to help others who have been in similar situation. I know from first-hand experience what it can be like for people who are struggling with their mental health, and I wanted to raise money for a charity that directly helps people like me in my home city of Manchester.

"Getting into hiking and spending a lot of time in the outdoors has really benefitted my mental health, and I’ve spent the last 6 months training for this challenge to try and help others who might be struggling.

"I’m hoping that my challenge will raise awareness for mental health and inspire others to get outdoors, as I believe that being in nature and getting outdoors can be so beneficial to everyone’s mental health.

"I also just want to give to other people, as I think that Manchester Mind is such a great charity and the work they do in Manchester really helps to support and improve the lives of those who, like me, have struggled with mental health."

 

Josh continued to speak about his  experiences whilst fundraising for Manchester Mind:

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"I’ve learnt a few things throughout my experience fundraising for Manchester Mind. The first thing that I’ve learnt is the importance of speaking out about mental health. It’s so important to talk to other people and feel heard when you do speak about mental health, and this really ties in with the work that Manchester Mind do. I’ve also learnt about setting achievable goals for yourself, and the rewarding feeling when you can complete those goals.

"It’s important in hiking to only attempt things that are safe, and not making it about ego. At the same time, it’s about pushing yourself within your capabilities and I’ve really learnt how rewarding it can feel when you complete a target that you’ve set. Hopefully I can reach my donation target before and during the hike! Finally, I’ve learnt about the importance of thinking of others and helping others, and this is why I’ve chosen to raise money for a charity that promotes this in their everyday work."

 

Josh concluded by saying thanks to Manchester Mind and those who are supporting him during his journey:

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"I want to say thank you to Manchester Mind for supporting me throughout my Fundraising Journey, and for the great work they do throughout the city. I love reading about other people’s experiences and stories on their Facebook and Instagram, so it feels great to be able to tell my own. I also want to say thank you to everyone who has supported me in the build-up to my challenge, whether that’s through donations or emotionally.

"I really appreciate it and it’s encouraging me to keep on with my training and promoting my message across my platforms. I wouldn’t have been able to do any of this without such strong support!"

 

Find him on Instagram: openspotcamping

or Facebook: https://www.youtube.com/@openspotcamping

https://www.manchestermind.org/

You can donate via GoFundMe : Link

Greater Manchester Police welcomed 120 new PCs in the latest attestation ceremony held at Sedgley Park on Tuesday 14 February 2023.

The new officers were sworn in by ACC Chris Sykes in front of Magistrate Stephen Paine.

The attestation ceremony is an important moment for all police officers as they embark on a career in policing. The attestation said by every new officer underlines their commitment to serve GMP and the public with fairness, integrity, diligence and impartiality.

ACC Chris Sykes said:

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“I’d like to welcome you - our newest officers - to Greater Manchester Police. Today you are signing up as a police officer and when you leave this room you will have powers that ordinary citizens don’t have and what I ask of you is that you treat those powers with respect, and you use them carefully.

“You are joining one of the biggest police forces in country and we now have nearly 8,000 serving officers.

“GMP have grown in recent years, and it serves a very large and very diverse population. It will give you many opportunities and you will have a fantastic career. It’s a career I’ve absolutely loved – I’ve been with GMP for 28 years and have never moved.

“As you go forth now, remember as police officers it is your job to uphold the law. Our job is simple: we uphold the law and we follow the rules. And if we get those basics right, we will be an excellent police service.”

 

The controller of a 'graft' phone used to advertise the purchase of cocaine in Wigan has been jailed.

Between Wednesday 3 August 2022 and Tuesday 1 November 2022, Christopher Clarke sent almost 7000 text messages to multiple people who suffer from addiction.

Clarke, of Neville Street, Wigan, was part of an organised crime group that was running a county lines network – a term renowned for exporting illegal drugs both in Greater Manchester and across the country, often using violence and coercion towards vulnerable people and children along the way.

The 35-year-old's criminal activity was uncovered during an investigation by GMP's County Lines Team.

On a daily basis vulnerable people received messages such as 'trigazon prime deliveries on time' and 'on til late get on me'. However, the messages came to an end on Tuesday 1 November 2022 when a warrant was executed at his property and officers seized the phone found hidden underneath his bed along with £600 in cash.

Clarke was found in the landing after officers burst through the door, and he was swiftly arrested. A search of a vehicle located a few streets away uncovered cocaine prepared for individual deals.

At an earlier hearing he pleaded guilty to possession with intent to supply cocaine and was sentenced at Bolton Crown Court on Friday 10 February to 31 months.

Detective Sergeant Chris Woodburn, from the County Lines Team, said:

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"Once again we have removed the controller of the phone that was crucial in reaching vulnerable people who the county line networks use to make illegal profits.

"Clarke, like many of the drug dealers, are relentless in sending out these messages but we are hot on their heels and determined to remove the phone to protect these vulnerable people.

"Help us, help them by providing information on drug activity that you believe could be taking place in your community, and we will do the rest."

 

To spot the signs of drug activity visit our website and to report information please either contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or contact GMP via 101.

Greater Manchester Police have received a report of a sexual assault that took place on Wednesday 1 February 2023 at around 10am.

The victim, a teenage girl, was walking along an estate inside Park Road in Little Lever, Bolton when she was approached by an unknown man who sexually assaulted her.

The suspect has been described as a white man, around 6ft 1inch tall and with grey/blue eyes with wrinkles around them giving the impression that he was an older man with wrinkly skin. He was wearing a white short sleeve shirt, blue jeans and a black balaclava.

Detective Sergeant Dominic Beaver of Bolton CID said:

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"This is a very concerning attack on a young girl and I would like to assure the local community that the investigation team is working at pace to locate the offender.

"Specialist officers are supporting the victim at this time and whilst we are following up a number of leads we are now also appealing to the public for help in identifying this man.

"We are particularly interested in speaking to anyone who may have been in the area of Park Road or "the avenues" at approximately 10am on 1 February 2023 - or who may have CCTV or dashcam footage relating to this incident. 

"If you have any information to share that could aid our investigation please call 0161 856 5757 quoting incident number 3196 of 5/2/2023.

"Alternatively, you can report information anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers – on 0800 555 111."

 

In the early hours of yesterday morning (Monday 6 February 2023) officers from Greater Manchester Police and Cleveland Police arrested a 34-year-old man in the Hemlington area of Middlesborough on suspicion of making threats to kill. 

He was taken into custody for questioning and has been released on conditional bail pending further enquiries. 

The arrest was carried out by officers from Greater Manchester Police Tameside Division alongside officers from Cleveland Police. It forms part of the ongoing investigation into threats and communications sent to Angela Rayner, Labour MP for Ashton-under-Lyne.

This latest arrest relates to a phone call made to the victim on 30 January 2023, with seven arrests made in total. The investigation has so far secured to three convictions.

Detective Inspector Christopher Dean, of Tameside District CID, said:

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"GMP will not tolerate any form of abuse including in its online forms – such as calls, texts, emails or via social media – and we will always investigate thoroughly to bring perpetrators to justice.

"If you have been a victim of abuse - whether physical or online –  please report it to GMP so we can deal with the matter appropriately.  We take reports of this nature very seriously and one of our specially trained officers will be on hand to help.

"You can make a report by calling 0161 856 9262 or 101. You can also use GMP's LiveChat function via the webiste: www.gmp.police.uk.

"Alternatively details can be passed via the anonymous charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

 

If you have been a victim of hate, don't suffer in silence. Visit https://gmvictims.org.uk to access victim support and information. 

Operation Vulcan dawn raids secure the arrest of three men following gang related burglaries in Cheetham Hill

Three men have been arrested this morning (Tuesday 7 January) after Operation Vulcan conducted a number of early morning warrants across Greater Manchester.

They have been arrested on suspicion of aggravated burglary and remain in police custody for questioning.

The warrants this morning were executed as part of Operation Vulcan's latest investigation into a burglary of two shops on Lockett Street in October which was housing over £1 million worth of counterfeit clothing.

Detective Sergeant Matt Donnelly, one of Operation Vulcan's specialist officers, said:

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"Operation Vulcan is about so much more than raiding counterfeit shops, it's about targeting every level of criminality that is happening in the area and protecting the vulnerable victims who are being exploited by this trade. After 12 weeks of relentless policing, our investigation is deepening, and we're able to go after those higher up the chain.

"We're not raiding these properties to stop people from getting a bargain, we're targeting people who are involved in serious organised crime. Counterfeiting is just the tip of the iceberg, and with it comes a multitude of sinister criminality and violence. In this instance, it's believed that the building had been targeted by a rival gang, and they'd gone to huge efforts to get inside."

 

National Missing Persons Day is on February 3 each year and shines a light on the thousands of people who go missing on an annual basis. It brings awareness to members of the public about people who are missing – and increases the chances of them being found.

In the UK, over 180,000 people are reported missing each year and Greater Manchester accounts for approximately 20,918 of these. Around 96% of people reported missing are found, with many of these returning home of their own accord.

Sadly, approximately 64 people in Greater Manchester are found deceased each year.

There are a number of reasons someone will go missing, including circumstances that people are trying to escape from, such as abuse, problems at work/school, relationship breakdowns, debt and mental health issues.

The age group with the greatest number of individuals being reported missing in Greater Manchester is 22 to 39-year-olds, with 15 to 17-year-olds generating the greatest number of events – with one individual, on average, going missing three times.

GMP is launching a pilot on Wednesday 1 March 2023 to try to protect these vulnerable people while at the same time reducing demand on ever-increasing stretched resources. It is believed that there will be an approximate reduction of missing events by a huge 30%.

Operation Ambition, led by Inspector Matthew Shiel and Constable Jamie Acton from the Central Manchester district, encourages close working with the staff at the Manchester Royal Infirmary, North Manchester General Hospital and Park House, to ensure people considered genuinely missing are reported.

Explaining in more detail, Constable Acton said:

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"27% of all public safety incidents including missings at GMP, starts at places where people feel safe such as hospitals like the MRI and North Manchester General.

"At GMP, we are continuing to review and update our policies and strategies when it comes to missing people but the legislation when it comes to reporting is clear. There has to be defined risk and vulnerability identified in a person before reporting.

"The onus will be on the staff to first try and locate the patient, by speaking to family and friends, as well as reviewing any CCTV footage. If all avenues are exhausted, then a sergeant will work closely with partner agencies to assess the capacity, risk and vulnerability of the person in order to establish the most suitable agency to support the vulnerable person.

"To allow this pilot to go ahead, we have trained Response Sergeants on the processes we wish them to follow and they, in turn, will be able to provide valuable support to our partner agencies across CoM North and Central.

"We hope the Pilot will not only reduce the demand on the police but will more importantly allow us to dedicate more time and resources into locating the genuine missing – getting them home safe to their loved ones."

 

If you have any information regarding anyone who is missing, you are encouraged to contact GMP by dialling 101 or via the LiveChat function on the website www.gmp.police.uk

Greater Manchester Police are continuing with enquiries into an investigation of an attempt robbery of a Post Office on Lostock Road in Davyhulme, Trafford on Saturday 14 January 2023 at around 1pm.

It is suspected a firearm was used to threaten staff who were serving customers at the time, although no discharge happened. The panic alarm was pressed which activated a smoke cloak and a result the suspect fled the scene. No arrests have been made at this time.

Trafford CID would now like to speak to this man with a distinctive red and black Berghaus jacket (pictured) in connection with the incident as they believe he could help with the investigation.

Detective Constable Emma Bentley of Trafford's CID said;

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"We are now appealing for anyone who may have seen what happened or who may know who this person is so they can help with our enquiries.

"Fortunately no one was harmed at the time and after exploring a number of lines of enquiry, we are now in a position to ask for the help of the public. We believe there is no direct threat to the local community but we are continuing to monitor the surrounding areas closely and will continue to ensure patrols are in place."

 

If anyone has any information, or witnessed the incident, they are asked to call 0161 856 7521 direct, 101 or through the LiveChat function on gmp.police.uk quoting log number 1377 of 14/01/23. Alternatively, details can be passed on anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Fifteen-year-old Jahzara Edmonson from Whalley Range, Manchester, was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2013 as a six-year-old, and following two complex operations and Proton Beam Therapy, remained cancer-free for nine years.

In November 2022, a routine scan found that a tumour had returned in her spine, and she underwent another operation to remove it.

Without therapy, a tumour is likely to reappear within six months. However, the NHS will only fund one round of Proton Beam Therapy per person – the safest form of treatment, leaving Jahzara ineligible.

Her family is now desperately trying to raise £100,000 to send Zahara to Essen in Germany for the treatment which she would ideally have before the end of March.

Jahzara and her sister Ayesha, 33, a probation officer in Manchester, will both be having their hair shaved to donate to the Little Princess Trust which makes wigs for children who have lost their hair. This event will take place on Thursday Feb 2 at 11am at the Trendco salon in Manchester City Centre.

Mum Gill, 58, a GP who has worked in South Manchester practices for the last 20 years said:

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'It is devastating that the cancer has come back after all this time. It's also very unusual.'

'Jahzara has recovered well from her recent operation at Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, but she now needs radiotherapy to stop the cancer recurring again.'

'Sadly because she has already had the Proton Beam Therapy many years ago, she is not eligible to have this again on the NHS.'

'Her oncologist agrees that this is the safest form for her. Proton Beam Therapy targets only the affected area, while standard radiotherapy will also affect many of her vital organs including her heart, stomach and ovaries. We are desperate to raise this money to send her to Essen to avoid potentially devastating side-effects.'

'Jahzara is a normal teenager who loves drawing and hopes to be a film-maker when she grows up. All we want is to beat this cancer which we thought had already gone, and let her get on with her life without having to battle the awful side effects traditional radiotherapy is likely to have.'

 

The family has already raised around £14,000 from family, friends, and well-wishers, and need to raise a total of £100,000 to cover treatment, travel and rehabilitation.

The family is being supported by children's charity Tree of Hope which helps families fundraise for children like Jahzara with healthcare needs and provides charity status to benefit from gift aid, corporate support while also providing donor reassurance.

Tree of Hope CEO Gill Gibb said:

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'We wish Jahzara and her Ayisha all the best with their hair shave and the family with their fundraising efforts and hope Jahzara can get her treatment as quickly as possible.'

To donate to Jahzara's fund, visit https://www.treeofhope.org.uk/jahzara-the-war-on-cancer-part-ii/

For more information about Little Princess Trust, visit https://www.littleprincesses.org.uk/

Greater Manchester Police's crack down on counterfeit goods in Cheetham Hill continues.

This week, the Operation Vulcan team and representatives from Manchester City Council have been meeting with landlords in the Cheetham Hill and Strangeways area to clamp down on privately owned properties being leased out to illegal enterprises.                                           

Historically, before Operation Vulcan was established, police would raid a property and seize tons of counterfeit items, but days after, the shop would be back up and running as if nothing had happened. Operation Vulcan's targeted, multi-agency approach means this can no longer happen.

Operation Vulcan's team of specialist officers are working closely with dedicated partners to make sure any properties which are being used illegitimately have closure notices issued and regular checks to make sure they are complying.

Colleagues from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service also attended to inspect the property and served the landlord a prohibition notice, meaning the property could not be used in any capacity until the relevant safety improvements had been made.

Detective Sergeant Matt Donnelly of Operation Vulcan said: 

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"Operation Vulcan is tackling serious organised crime in the area and the last eight weeks has seen major disruption to every level of criminality in the area.

"An integral part of this operation's success is engaging with members of the local community, which is most effective when we work with our partners, and the closures this week are an example of our multi agency approach in action.

"We want to work closely with local landlords and businesses to restore Cheetham Hill and Strangeways to the thriving hub it once was, making it a place for legitimate businesses to prosper."

 

Councillor Luthfur Rahman, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, said:

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 "I am incredibly proud of the recent work that has been carried out in Cheetham Hill. The Council, working with Greater Manchester Police and other valued partners has been making huge strides in cracking down on the illegal activity and anti-social behaviour which is a blight on this community.  

"However, Operation Vulcan is about more than just enforcement. It's about building back a sense of unity in the area. Working with business owners and landlords we want to show that Cheetham Hill can be a place for businesses to thrive and that once rogue traders are kicked out, they're kicked out for good." 

 

David Minto, Fire Safety Group Manager at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, said:

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"We're working in partnership with Greater Manchester Police on Op Vulcan and our Fire Safety Officers are conducting fire safety inspections within the premises they're raiding. Our fire safety inspectors attended this property and deemed it so unsafe that an immediate prohibition notice was serviced to prohibit the first floor of this building. Together we're working hard to rid Greater Manchester of this illegal and dangerous activity that blights communities."

On Sunday 22 January 2023, officers from Operation Vulcan were conducting patrols on Moulton Street, Manchester.

Whilst on patrol the officers spotted four men emptying a shop of suspected counterfeit goods.

Officers searched their van and inside found large quantities of prescription medications and thousands of pounds worth of suspected counterfeit clothing.

The four were subsequently arrested on suspicion of possession with intent to supply Class C drugs and distribution of articles infringing trademarks.

Inspector Andy Torkington of GMP Operation Vulcan said:

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“This week we cleared out a further three units housing counterfeit shops that were discovered by our officers.

“Our work didn’t stop there either – our officers then attended a home address of one of the shop owners and there discovered huge storage quantities of suspected counterfeit goods and also seized around £6,000 in cash.

“The police presence in the Cheetham Hill and Strangeways area is relentless. I believe our activity is starting to make a real difference and is making it more difficult for criminals to operate in the area.

“Our officers are on the lookout for anyone who may be shifting counterfeit goods to intercept and prevent offenders from transferring criminal activity elsewhere.

“Operation Vulcan is not confined to Cheetham Hill and Strangeways – whilst I’m pleased to see disruption in criminal activity, this is not about moving the problem elsewhere.

“Counterfeit crime brings with it serious and violent criminality and we will therefore continue to squeeze and target offenders until they desist or we put them in jail.”

 

Marcus Evans, the Intellectual Property Office’s Deputy Director of Intelligence and Law Enforcement, said:

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“As well as being illegal, counterfeit goods cause real social and environmental harms, and damage legitimate traders. Such goods are often unsafe or defective, undermine consumer confidence and help sustain serious and organised criminality. 

“We are pleased to support this activity to clamp down on the sale of such illicit goods, working in partnership to help protect communities from this type of crime. We continue to work with our partners to raise awareness of the dangers of illicit counterfeits, helping empower consumers to make informed choices and disrupting criminal activity”.

 

St Ann’s Hospice has reached an important milestone in their fundraising for the new Heald Green Hospice. Thanks to its supporters, the hospice has now raised £500,000 towards its Build It Together Appeal – bringing it that bit closer to making the new hospice a reality.

In total, building the new hospice will cost around £21.5million which includes buying the land next door to the existing hospice site. Unlike at the current hospice, there will be private bedrooms for patients so they and their loved ones can have the privacy they deserve at this important time. The new hospice will be built into the existing landscape – meaning there will be much bigger gardens, and lovely mature trees surrounding the hospice building. 

The Build It Together Appeal aims to raise £2million towards the total build costs. This £500,000 milestone means there is still more fundraising to be done to raise the additional £1.5million needed.

Rachel McMillan, Chief Executive of St Ann’s Hospice, said:

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“Within that big number of half a million pounds are lots of individual acts of kindness and generosity – people have run for us, walked for us, baked cakes for us and of course donated directly to us too!

“We are so grateful to each and every person who donates to our appeal and helps us to get one step closer to our new hospice becoming a reality. Especially in this current economic climate, we cannot thank you enough for your support.

“Our existing Heald Green hospice has served us well, but it was never intended to be a hospice at all – it was originally a school. And at over 150 years old, and with Victorian plumbing and a roof that often needs patching up, we cannot keep making do and mending for much longer.

“Both of our hospices at Heald Green and Little Hulton are hugely important to us as we plan for the future care needs of Greater Manchester and look to safeguard hospice care for future generations.

“If we are to reach our demanding fundraising target, the ongoing help of the community and businesses from across Greater Manchester will be crucial. So, if a company, school or community group you know or work for has not already decided on a charity to support in the year ahead our fundraising team would be delighted to hear from you.”

 

You can help to build the new St Ann’s hospice by donating at https://newhospice.sah.org.uk/donate/ or by phoning 0161 498 3631.

The Greater Manchester Police, Fire and Crime Panel has agreed to the Mayor of Greater Manchester’s proposal to increase the police precept for 2023/24 to fund further improvements to policing by £1.25 per month for a Band D property or 83 pence per month for a Band A property – the largest proportion of properties in Greater Manchester  (44.7 percent) are in Band A.

The majority (73 percent) of people who responded to the public consultation on the police precept supported the proposals to prioritise providing Neighbourhood Crime Teams, sustaining and improving call handling times and strengthening investigative capacity and capability.

The Panel is made up of elected representatives from across all ten of Greater Manchester’s councils as well as independent members, chaired by Councillor Janet Emsley. The Panel’s role is to scrutinise the Mayor and the Deputy Mayor who have Police and Crime Commissioner responsibilities which includes setting the police precept – the police element of council tax.

The precept increase, along with the central government policing grant, will fund:

The establishment of dedicated Neighbourhood Crime Teams in each district to more effectively and proactively tackle the issues that residents said are important to them including burglary, robbery, and vehicle crime.

The workforce level required to ensure that the significant improvements in 999 and 101 waiting times are maintained and further improved, particularly in respect of 101.

Increased capacity and capability of crime scene investigators and digital investigators strengthening opportunities to detect neighbourhood crime and sex offending, including such offences against children.

Increased numbers of investigators who conduct initial investigations when a crime is first reported, to ensure more timely and effective investigations into offences that have a big impact on our communities like criminal damage and hate crime.

The current police precept for a Band D property is £228.30 which will increase to £243.30 in the coming financial year and a Band A property will go up from £152.20 to £162.20.

Even with the increase, the Greater Manchester police precept will remain one of the lowest in the country.

Over the current financial year, the Mayor and Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester have continued to see improvements in GMP performance, including coming out of special measures. 999 call answering time are now the fastest they have been for over 2 years, police officers have attended 94 percent of all burglaries - increasing from 74 percent the previous year, while arrests have more than doubled.

Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, said: 

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“I haven’t taken the decision to increase to the police precept lightly. Budget pressures caused by record high inflation but without an increase in the government police grant to mitigate it, means GMP needs this additional funding to avoid cuts to vital services.

“I know that many of our residents are struggling with the cost of living crisis but they have also told us they want to see more police in their neighbourhoods, be more responsive to incidents and arrest more people. It is these measures that will help keep our streets safe.

“I would like to thank the Police, Crime and Fire Panel for unanimously backing my proposal which will see GMP continue on their improvement journey and create a force we can all have confidence in.”

 

Chair of the Police, Fire and Crime Panel, Janet Emsley, said: 

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“The Panel agreed to endorse the Mayor’s proposal to increase the police precept because we recognise residents want to feel safe in their homes, at work and out and about, and we need to support GMP by ensuring they have the funding to do this.”

Deputy Mayor for Policing, Crime, Criminal Justice and Fire, Kate Green, added: “I would also like to thank the Police, Crime and Fire Panel for supporting the increase to the police precept. No one wants to add to the financial burden of our residents but the Mayor and I have a responsibility to keep people safe and it is crucial we continue to invest in the frontline services needed to tackle crime.

“For anyone struggling with their bills there is information on our Helping Hands website www.greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk/helping-hand/.”

 

This morning (Thursday 26 January 2023), officers from GMP's Complex Fraud Investigation Team executed three search warrants at a property and a car dealership in Rochdale and a further property in Alderley Edge, Cheshire.

Subsequently, £25,000, a Rolex watch and 10 diamond necklaces as well as a number of high value designer clothes and goods were seized and two men in their 40's were arrested on suspicion of money laundering and fraud by false representation.

The investigation relates to multiple allegations from customers that dozens of cars were being sold with outstanding finance, leaving them liable to pay the debt. 

They both remain in custody ahead of being questioned by officers from GMP's Complex Fraud Investigation Team.

Detective Inspector James Coles from GMP's Economic Crime Unit said

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"This type of crime will not be tolerated in Greater Manchester.

"We work to put a stop to criminal's finances as this often is used to further criminality and violent crime.

"Money laundering costs the UK economy billions of pounds and this illicit finance often serves as the motivator for more serious and organised crime.

"We will continue and carry on targeting those suspected to be involved in money laundering and fraud and aim to seize their assets and cash so they can be reinvested into the communities of Greater Manchester and funnelled to those who need it."

 

Anyone with information about suspicious financial activity can report it to us online through our online crime reporting form, or by calling 101. You can also report via our Live Chat service on their website: www.gmp.police.uk

Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

At around 9pm last night (Tuesday 24 January) Greater Manchester Police arrested three men in a vehicle in Castlefield, West Yorkshire in connection with a series of large-scale commercial burglaries across Greater Manchester and the North West.

Three men, aged 44, 43 and 39 remain in police custody for questioning.

Detective Inspector Rick Castley of GMP Serious Organised Crime Group said:

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“These arrests are part of a proactive investigation into organised crime across the region, particularly those targeting commercial properties.

“Thankfully, no members of the public have been injured during these incidents and a swift response from GMP means the suspects have been arrested and the stolen items have been recovered.”

 

On Thursday 19 January, ahead of the government's new announcement on their initiative to tackle organised criminal gangs, the Operation Vulcan team welcomed the Home Secretary Suella Braverman to Cheetham Hill and Strangeways to demonstrate their action so far.

The new organised crime strategy –'clear, hold, build' will see police ruthlessly pursue gang members to clear the area, hold the location so another gang cannot take its place, and ultimately  build the community into a prosperous area people are proud to live and work in. This has been Operation Vulcan's goal since day one, and with the help of partner agencies across Greater Manchester, Operation Vulcan has taken great strides to ridding the area of the criminality that has, for too long, caused devastation to the local communities.

People often don't see how serious organised crime is underpinning the counterfeit trade in Cheetham Hill and Strangeways, but the money people are spending on these fake items, is funding serious criminality and contributing to the purchase of drugs and weapons which are being imported and couriered across Greater Manchester. Counterfeiting is not a victimless crime and Operation Vulcan is continuing to engage with members of the public to show them the true cost of counterfeit clothing, but also the danger they're putting themselves and loved ones in by buying or gifting these items.

Detective Superintendent Neil Blackwood who is leading Operation Vulcan said:

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"Organised crime is at the very centre of the problems our communities are facing and it's bringing violent crime and anti-social behaviour to the area. We've seen rival gangs fighting in broad daylight, breaking into each other's shops to tax their goods, dealing drugs in front of members of the public and intimidating legitimate businesses. These criminals are funding their lavish lifestyles at the expense of vulnerable victims and local families, and we will no longer stand for it.

"Operation Vulcan was established to target every level of criminality in the area. We aren't just targeting the low-level members, we're working our way up the chain, dismantling their enterprises, and seizing millions of pounds worth of counterfeit clothing and hundreds and thousands of pounds as we go."