At around 7pm on Thursday 24 November 2022, Greater Manchester Police responded to reports of a deceased body on Kilburn Drive, Shevington, Wigan.

Michael Hillier (25/02/1984) of Ecclesall Road, Sheffield, has been charged with murder.

Hillier has since been remanded into custody and is due to appear at Tameside Magistrates today (Tuesday 24 January).

Two arrests have been made this evening, Monday 23 January 2023, in connection with a stabbing that left a 19-year-old man in a critical condition.

A 20-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder, and a woman, also 20, on suspicion of assisting an offender. They remain in custody for questioning.

Officers received reports of the stabbing at around 11.30pm last night, Sunday 22 January 2023, on Stockport Road in Levenshulme.  

Section 60 stop and search powers were introduced at 12pm today and will remain in place until 12pm tomorrow, Tuesday 24 January 2023. These powers have been implemented to assist officers in minimising and preventing violence after the incident.

The perimeter incorporates Alma Road/Highfield Road, Nelstrop Road North, Errwood Road and Crossley Road/Cringle Road and there is also an increased police presence in the area whilst officers continue with their investigation.

Anyone who may have any information is urged to contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 856 1995 direct or 101 quoting log 3385 of 22/01/2023. Alternatively, contact the independent charity - Crimestoppers - anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The head of a Kurdish people smuggling ring has been arrested after going on the run prior to his sentencing.

Tarik Namik, aged 45 and from Oldham, was given an eight year jail term in his absence on 9 December 2022 after he failed to show up at Manchester Crown Court.

Four other members of his gang were sentenced alongside him.

The court had previously heard how he became the subject of an National Crime Agency investigation in 2017, and headed up an organised crime group involved in transporting migrants from Iraq and Iran to the UK hidden in the back of lorries.

Following his no-show at court a warrant was issued for Namik’s arrest, and he was detained as he arrived into Manchester Airport on a flight from Istanbul on Friday 20 January.

He was due to appear briefly before Manchester magistrates Saturday (21 January) and is likely to return to the Crown Court on Monday 23 January to be formally sentenced.

NCA Branch Commander Richard Harrison said:

Quote

“Namik was a prolific people smuggler whose crime group put vulnerable migrants at great risk while he reaped the profits. I’m delighted that he will now face justice for the offences he committed.

Greater Manchester Police were called to a report of a stabbing on Stockport Road in Levenshulme at around 11:30pm last night (Sunday 22 January 2023).

Emergency services were already at the scene where a 19-year-old man had suffered serious injuries which are thought to be life-threatening. He currently remains in a critical condition in hospital.

A scene is still in place this morning whilst enquiries continue, and no arrests have been made at this time.

Inspector Matthew Hamer of GMP's Major Incident Team, said:

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"An active investigation has been underway since late last night and will continue into today as we look to identify those responsible

"A scene will continue to be in place whilst we conduct further searches and enquiries with an increased police presence in the area. GMP are taking a robust approach to knife crime in the Greater Manchester area and this is no exception."

 

Anyone with information that may help officers in their initial investigation are asked to call 0161 856 1995 direct or 101 quoting log 3385 of 22/01/2023.

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

Mitchell Gleave, (20/12/1995) of no fixed abode, appeared at Manchester Crown Square Crown Court on Friday (20th January 2023) for sentencing, after being found guilty in March 2022 of the following offences:

1x count of rape

1x count of attempting to choke with intent

1x count of making threats to kill

1x count of assault

1x count of robbery

All offences relate to the same incident which occurred on Saturday 23 February 2019 at the victims home in the Wythenshawe area.

The court heard how the victim was at home on the Saturday morning in 2019, when Gleave who the victim knew vaguely as an acquaintance, knocked on her door asking to use her mobile phone which she agreed to. Gleave then left before returning to the victims home twice more asking to use the phone. On the third occasion, Gleave became aggressive in tone, again asking to use the phone which the victim then declined.

Gleave blocked the victim from closing her front door before proceeding to put his hand around her neck, pushing her back into the house. The victim recalled waking up on her living room floor, realising that Gleave had squeezed her throat to the point where she had become unconscious.

On regaining consciousness, the victim noticed Gleave using her phone while asking her questions, demanding to know if she had any cash in the house. Gleave continued to squeeze the victims neck leaving her unable to speak and losing consciousness again, which happened several times. Gleave put his hand over her mouth to silence any screams while sitting on top of her, punching the victim to the side of her body.

The victim made attempts to shout out of her window for help, before Gleave then threatened to kill her. He then left the house and the victim ran out shortly after to find help nearby and the police were called. The victim then suspected that while she had been unconscious Gleave had sexually assaulted her, he was later charged and found guilty of rape.

DC Katie Parlatt of Greater Manchester Police, said:

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"This was a horrifying and sustained attack on an innocent woman in her own home. Gleave is clearly a dangerous man and I am relieved that he has now been brought to justice and will be in prison for the foreseeable future.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank the victim for her immense bravery in assisting us with our investigation. It must have been harrowing to have to recall that terrifying day but I hope todays verdict can serve as some closure for her."

 

If you or someone you know has been raped or sexually assaulted, we encourage you not to suffer in silence and report it to the police, or a support agency so you can get the help and support available.

- Saint Mary's Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Manchester provides a comprehensive and co-ordinated response to men, women and children who live or have been sexually assaulted within Greater Manchester. They offer forensic medical examinations, practical and emotional support as well as a counselling service for all ages. Services are available on a 24-hour basis and can be accessed by calling 0161 276 6515.

- Greater Manchester Rape Crisis is a confidential information, support and counselling service run by women for women over 18 who have been raped or sexually abused at any time in their lives. Call on 0161 273 4500 or email help@manchesterrapecrisis.co.uk

- Survivors Manchester provides specialist trauma informed support to male victims in Greater Manchester who have experienced sexual abuse, rape or sexual exploitation. Call 0161 236 2182.

GREATER Manchester Leaders have today (Wednesday 18 January) launched the process to develop a Good Landlord Charter for the city-region – a pioneering new initiative to drive up housing standards, recognise good practice, and support tenants.

The Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, and Deputy Mayor Paul Dennett, the Salford City Mayor and Chair of the Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership, made the announcement alongside Charlie Norman, Chair of Greater Manchester Housing Providers (GMHP).

The Good Landlord Charter will reaffirm Greater Manchester’s commitment to deliver safe, decent, and affordable housing for all residents, and acknowledge that housing is fundamental to people’s health and wellbeing.

The Charter will cover both social housing and private rented sector housing, and the aim is to define a set of clear, practical, and accessible standards that will drive up the quality of renting in Greater Manchester. It will also act as a vehicle for Greater Manchester to deliver on its broader ambitions for more devolved control over housing – a key component of ongoing trailblazer negotiations with central Government.

GMHP have been working for more than a year on standards and regulation for social housing providers in the city-region, and this work – alongside national standards set by the Regulator of Social Housing – will provide a firm foundation for Greater Manchester’s own scheme.

These include working with the GMCA and local authorities to:

Ensure that social housing providers uphold the regulatory standards as they are now, including the new tenant satisfaction measures from 2023

Work collectively on influencing new national standards, such as those set out in the Social Housing Regulation Bill and the Better Social Housing review

Regularly and clearly communicate regulatory standards for social housing residents

Learn from and act on the lessons from the Awaab Ishak tragedy and share existing good practice

Review how each social housing provider reports, records, and remedies disrepair claims

Developing a Good Landlord Charter was one of the Mayor’s manifesto commitments in the 2021 mayoral election.

Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said:

Quote

 

“Bringing forward a Good Landlord Charter was a commitment I made back in 2021, and right now the case for raising standards, tightening regulations, and empowering tenants has never been stronger. Once again, Greater Manchester is leading the way and making a decisive move towards a new approach – one that we hope will join the dots between housing, health, wellbeing, and everything in between.

“From the way he led the Government response to the appalling death of Awaab Ishak in Rochdale, I know that the Secretary of State understands the importance of this, and why we need better housing, stronger enforcement, and greater accountability across the board. So do many partners across our city-region’s social and private rented sector – which is why we want to work with them to create a Charter that is as fair and robust as possible, and establishes a clear set of expectations for landlords and tenants.

“Our devolution journey has already enabled us to make a difference to people’s lives by integrating public services and aligning priorities right across the system. Our ongoing trailblazer talks now present an opportunity for us to work with Government and go even further, with greater powers and responsibility at local level, and housing is a key priority for us in this process.”

 

Following the model set by the Good Employment Charter, the Charter will be co-produced with stakeholders across the housing sector, and input will be sought from partners including registered housing providers, private landlords, local authorities, and tenants’ groups. Currently, social housing providers are subject to a national set of regulatory standards, covering economic and consumer responsibilities, while a different set of standards applies to the private rented sector. Our ambition is that a Greater Manchester Good Landlord Charter will give both sectors a clear route map to raising standards in all rented homes.

As with the Good Employment Charter, landlords and housing providers will receive recognition for upholding the standards and principles set out in the Good Landlord Charter.

Development of the Charter will be informed by research commissioned to gauge the views of tenants and landlords about the issues that matter to them. That development process is set to conclude later this year, following a public consultation on a draft Charter, with the aim to have the Charter in place by the end of 2023.

Deputy Mayor Paul Dennett said:

Quote

 

“Today represents a major step towards introducing a Good Landlord Charter for Greater Manchester, making us the first place in the country to bring forward a commitment of this kind. It will provide a firm, clear, and practical set of standards that will recognise good practice and enable us to work with partners across the sector to drive up housing standards.

“It’s clear that some landlords or housing providers out there are not upholding existing standards, and the consequences of this can be devastating to tenants’ health and wellbeing. We want to set the benchmark for what good housing ought to mean right across Greater Manchester, close the gaps that exist between different organisations in the sector, and ensure that tenants have clarity and confidence in housing standards in our city-region.”

 

Charlie Norman, Chair of Greater Manchester Housing Providers, said:

Quote

 

“At the heart of Greater Manchester Housing Providers’ ethos is the belief that everyone in Greater Manchester has the right to a decent, healthy, safe and affordable place to live. Across our 24 members we own or manage over 250,000 homes in the city region, and we have a shared commitment to continuous improvement of standards and quality.

“We welcome the opportunity to work with the Mayor, our partners, and most importantly tenants and residents across Greater Manchester, to help develop the Good Landlord Charter and ensure everyone in both the private and social rented sector lives in a place they can be proud to call home.”   

 

Kurt Mueller, Director of Corporate Affairs at Grainger plc, the UK’s largest listed residential landlord with over 1,600 rental homes in Greater Manchester, said:

Quote

“As one of the country’s leading responsible landlords, we’re pleased to be involved in helping shape Manchester’s Good Landlord Charter, an opportunity to help raise the bar for renting across the city. Renting can and should be a positive experience and we’re committed to doing what we can to make this a reality.”

Tackling bad housing and boosting enforcement

In December applications opened for a new trainee programme funded through the Greater Manchester Good Landlord Scheme, which is creating 10 new roles to increase capacity in housing enforcement across the city-region.

Over the course of a three-year placement, trainees will develop a range of skills in housing enforcement, deploying the unique powers that officers have to advise landlords of their responsibilities and act where they find bad practices and poor-quality housing. They will work to support tenants struggling with homes that may be damp, cold, insecure, or structurally unsound, gathering evidence and taking legal action against the worst offending landlords.

Applications will close on Friday 20 January, and more information can be found on the greater.jobs website.

Two people linked to a north Manchester organised crime group have been jailed after guns and ammunition were found in a loft.

Joseph Jonathan Mulenga and Jamie Leigh Cunningham are the final two to be dealt with in court as part of Operation Approach that targeted the Waterloo Gang in March 2021.

Mulenga (25/1/2002), of Bellott Street, Cheetham Hill, and Cunningham (2/12/2001), of Rochdale Road, Harpurhey, had both had pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and possession of ammunition at a previous hearing.

Mulenga was jailed for five years when he was sentenced at Manchester Crown Court on 17 January 2023, while Cunningham was sent to prison for 18 months. Both sentences were for possession of a firearm.

Both defendants were also handed concurrent sentences for possession of a firearm without a certificate, while Mulenga was given a four-month concurrent term for possession of ammunition.

Detective Inspector Simon Akker, of GMP's Serious and Organised Crime Group, said:

Quote

 

"Today's sentence not only takes a dangerous criminal off the streets but resulted in the seizure of two weapons.

"GMP will relentlessly pursue these crime gangs that are a blight on society and make people's lives a misery.

"Mulenga was associated with the Waterloo Gang, which had been in dispute with two OCGs, one in north Manchester and one in Salford, that resulted in a number of firearms being discharged and young men being seriously assaulted and stabbed, resulting in life-changing injuries.

"Other criminality included attempted murder, assault, aggravated burglary, criminal damage and robbery.

"On 30 August 2020 an address associated to Mulenga was targeted by gunmen firing two shots but hitting a next-door neighbour's premises."

 

On Tuesday 17 March 2021, acting on intelligence provided as part of Operation Approach, a firearms warrant was executed at Cunningham's home address and officers recovered two shotguns and more than 100 cartridges.

In police interview, Cunningham told officers that Mulenga had taken the guns to her address in a taxi. Mulenga was arrested in July 2021 with his DNA linking him to the weapons.

DI Akker added:

Quote

 

"Operation Approach was a targeted operation in conjunction with officers in north Manchester and Salford that has led to the arrest of several key members of the Waterloo Gang, a north Manchester Organised Crime Group (OCG).

"Together they targeted those members of the OCG who were suspected of being actively involved in violent crimes and drug-related activity.

"This OCG was involved in many firearms discharges - from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021 was a particularly intense period when 26 discharges were recorded in the area. This had a huge impact on the victims and the community.

"In March 2021, 14 people were arrested and officers also recovered two firearms and ammunition, as well as over 8kg of Class A and B drugs.

"In addition, two stolen vehicles and more than £150,000 of criminal cash were seized."

 

On Sunday 15 January 2023, at around 2:25am, officers responded to reports of a stabbing on Churchgate in Bolton town centre.

An 18-year-old man was then taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Greater Manchester Police can now confirm two men have been charged in relation to this incident.

Lewis Barton (15/07/2002) of Churchill Drive, Bolton, has been charged with wounding with intent, two counts of assault and possession of a bladed article.

Levi Wharmby (27/11/2001) Croft Avenue, Bolton, has been charged with wounding with intent and two counts of assault.

They have both been bailed to appear at Bolton Crown Court on Monday 20 February 2023.

The men were involved in the importation of multiple packages of drugs that were intercepted by Border Force officials between 15 June 2021 to 6 November 2021 at Heathrow Airport and the International Logistics Centre in Langley.

Jason Warren had multiple packages sent to his property and was involved in arranging further packages to be sent to various other addresses.

On 24 November 2021 officers executed a warrant at Warren's property on Hillside Close and arrested the 35-year-old.

A search of the bedroom located a firearm underneath the mattress at the bottom of the bed. In the kitchen a plastic bag in the freezer contained amphetamine along with drug paraphernalia.

The analysis of Warren's mobile phone identified others involved. Corey Atkinson was serving a prison sentence in HMP Forest Bank when he was communicating with Warren via a mobile phone.

Atkinson directed Warren to collect the boxes from the others and take them to Andrew Dicken who would hand over money to Warren. 

After being charged all six defendants pleaded guilty to various offences including the importation of cannabis, money laundering and possession of a firearm.

They appeared at Minshull street Crown Court on Friday 13 January 2023 and were sentenced.

Jason Warren, of no fixed address, was sentenced to six years for conspiracy to import cannabis with the intent to avoid a prohibition, conspiracy to acquire criminal property, possession with intent to supply amphetamine and possession of a prohibited weapon.

Corey Atkinson, aged 27, of no fixed address was sentenced to 27 months for conspiracy to import cannabis with the intent to avoid a prohibition and conspiracy to acquire criminal property.

Andrew Dicken, aged 41, of Leyburn Avenue, Urmston, Manchester was sentenced to 21 months for conspiracy to import cannabis with the intent to avoid a prohibition.

Detective Constable Michelle Lomax, of Oldham's Challenger organised crime team, said:

Quote

 

"This should send a message to individuals who attempt to import illegal drugs into the country that packages, no matter how concealed you think they may be, can be checked and intercepted at the border.

"The investigation didn't stop at one individual. After Warren's arrest we were able to seize his mobile phone and identify those working alongside him who were also reaping the profits of the conspiracy.

"What was significant is how we discovered a firearm that had been concealed underneath a mattress and then taken it out of circulation, preventing it from potentially being used to cause serious harm or threats to others."

 

Greater Manchester Police welcomed over 100 new officers again yesterday (Tuesday 10 January 2023) at the latest attestation at the prestigious and historic Sedgley Park Training Centre.

The 115 new officers, called H22, which were split into two groups, were praised by Assistant Chief Constable Wasim Chaudhry in a special ceremony.

Whilst the new officers were under oath to the King, magistrate Joan Cooper, witnessed their attestation as part of a legally binding declaration before they started their new career in policing.

The two groups, Policing Education Qualification Framework (PEQF) and the Initial Police Learning and Development Programme (ILDP), will all undertake 19 weeks of learning in an educational environment before landing in their districts across Greater Manchester for an additional 10-week training.

Assistant Chief Constable Wasim Chaudhry said:

Quote

 

“Our recruitment process has been ambitious; these officers have been selected and identified to have the skills that will ensure we continue to keep our streets safe. I’m sure they will relish and cherish the opportunity they have been awarded and make a big contribution and difference for generations to come.

“With GMP being the most improved force in the country and the second largest, we have a duty of care to serve our communities to the best of our ability and we continue to have to make sure that is our priority.”

 

At the end of the ceremony, ACC Chaudhry answered questions from the newly fledged officers and gave his own personal advice and support, in the hope that it would inspire them further. Like them, he started out in the Greater Manchester districts 28 years ago and has seen a whole host of changes and experiences during that time.

GMP are now reaching ever closer to the uplift target it set of having 8,000+ new officers serving Greater Manchester this year.

Would you like to start a career in policing?

Find out more here: Greater Manchester Police (https://gmp.police.uk)

Ambulance service staff from GMB and Unison trade unions will go on strike again on Wednesday, 11 January 2023, with Unison and Unite members taking further action on Monday, 23 January 2023. This is a continuing dispute between trade unions and the government over pay.

While ambulances will still be available on these days, again, they are asking the public to support them to ensure they are available for people with life-threatening injuries and illnesses.

Typical emergencies include cardiac arrest, loss of consciousness, fits that aren’t stopping, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding or allergic reactions and serious head injuries.

Other patients requiring hospital treatment will likely be asked to take alternative transport, such as a taxi or get a lift from family or friends.

Equally, people should use 111.nhs.uk, their GP or local pharmacy for help with non-urgent health concerns.

This is all the more important as strike action on 11 January will see more staff striking in more service areas. We’ll have reduced ambulance crews but also reduced 999 and 111 call handling staff and fewer staff in our Patient Transport Service (PTS).

Patients who have PTS bookings on 11 January 2023 will only now be available for renal, oncology and palliative care appointments. Providers will be in touch to inform you if your appointment is being cancelled or to advise if you need to seek alternative transport.Ged Blezard, Director of Operations, said,

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“Firstly, I want to thank the public for their support on the previous day of strike action before Christmas. You heeded our messages, and we were grateful to see 999 call volumes drop significantly.

“As before, we are maximising our own resources, using private providers and military support where appropriate and working closely with our trade unions to provide cover for the most serious emergencies. We are also working with our healthcare partners to maintain patient safety during these periods of industrial action.

“But, to get to the people who need us this time, we will require you to do the same again. However, I want to make it clear that if you need us, please continue to ring 999, and we will get there as quickly as we can.

“Ambulance resources will be prioritising life-threatening injuries and illness. Unfortunately, other patients will wait and may be advised to seek alternative transport if they still require hospital treatment.

“We will also be particularly more stretched in our 999 and 111 call centres, which will likely result in longer call response times.

“Therefore, if you have already called 999 to request an ambulance, please only call back if your condition has worsened or to cancel the ambulance. Repeatedly calling 999 can block phone lines for other emergencies.  

“And if you need urgent care – first use the symptom checker at NHS 111 online, which will direct you to the most appropriate support. Again, you should call on friends or relatives for transport if necessary.”

 

NHS 111 Online can tell you:

Where to get help for your symptoms, if you’re not sure what to do

How to find general health information and advice

Where to get an emergency supply of your prescribed medicine

How to get a repeat prescription

More information about when to call 999and when to go to A&E is available via the national NHS website.

If you are calling about a mental health concern, please use the mental health crisis lines available in your area:

Greater Manchester (Bury, Heywood, Middleton & Rochdale, Oldham, Stockport and Tameside & Glossop – 0800 014 9995)

Greater Manchester (Bolton, Manchester, Salford, Trafford & Wigan)- 0800 953 0285

A 21-year-old man has been charged with causing very serious injuries to three men on Cramond Walk, Bolton around 4am on Saturday 7 January 2023.

Rylan Cullen (19/11/01) of Falcon Drive, Little Hulton has been charged with three counts of section 18 assault and possessing an offensive weapon in a public place.

It is believed two of the victims have life-threatening injuries, whilst the other man's injuries are reported as being life changing.

Cullen will be appearing at Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court today.

Ahad Hussain (07/10/1997) of West Street, Rochdale was sentenced to nine years for possession of a firearm, possession with intent to supply and dangerous driving at Minshull Street Crown Court on Friday 6 January 2023.

This was following an arrest back in mid-October 2022 (Tuesday 11th) at around 11am following a police pursuit on Tweedale Street in Rochdale. During the pursuit, Hussain's car, a Volkswagen Jetta, collided with another Mercedes 4x4 type vehicle, and he was detained by officers at the scene which was initiated after his erratic driving and failing to stop.

He was then taken to Fairfield Hospital in Bury to receive treatment for serious injuries which were not life-threatening, thought to be sustained during the collision. Shortly after a concealed firearm was safely recovered without any further incident or risk to the public which also uncovered Class A drugs on his person that were later valued to be around £2,800.

A scene was put in place in part of the hospital and investigators attended to conduct additional enquiries before charging the suspect.

It later transpired Hussain was driving under a provisional licence and not in accordance meaning he was also uninsured.

Detective Sergeant Andy Whitehill of GMP's Rochdale Child Protection Investigation Unit said:

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"This was a proactive stop by our officers at the time after their 'police instinct' kicked in.

"What followed was a fast-paced but swift incident and investigation on a person that carried a direct threat to the public.

"The sentence shows the severity of the offences committed by the individual and how we will do all we can to keep the local community safe from people who are intent on committing crime."

 

Following successful forfeitures, GMP’s Economic Crime Unit have successfully recovered £11,242,753 this tax year. 

The Economic Crime Unit is made up of a number of specialist teams who all target different areas of criminal finances to ensure that all their funds are removed. 

This comes after a record-breaking year for our Economic Crime Unit as last tax year they recovered £13.7 million and the unit is in a good position to continue this success and break more records this year.

The money is made up from:

Over £5 million from the Account Freezing Order Team (AFO), by conducting civil investigations the team freeze suspected criminal funds in bank accounts and these are then forfeited at court.

£3.5 million from the Asset Detention and Recovery Unit (ADRU) who won the Annual Chief's Award for Team of the Year in 2021, they deal with the seizures of cash and listed assets by conducting civil investigations following seizures of cash and assets by other teams in the Economic Crime Unit– with a view to forfeiting seized cash and assets which is then invested back into the community.

Over £2 million from the Confiscation and Restrain Unit – this is made up of financial investigators who restrain assets such as houses and then seek confiscation orders after criminal conviction.

The Money Laundering Team conduct proactive and reactive investigations– following arrests the money makes its way to the ADRU and AFO teams to secure the illicit finances through convictions in court.

Operation Falcon created in May 2022 is GMP's specific operation in response to cash couriers. These are seizures conducted by the Money Laundering Team and these are ultimately forfeited to contribute towards the £10 million total. Almost half of the money forfeited from criminals and suspected offenders returns to GMP through the Asset Recovery Incentive Scheme (ARIS); a Home Office led programme, this money is re-invested into community programmes and charities across Greater Manchester, as well as funding policing programmes and operations to continue fighting crime.

Operation Falcon designer goods seizure by GMP's Money Laundering Team

Examples of community initiatives that have received ARIS funding last year:

Fitton Hill Bulldogs Community Sport Centre in Oldham will use the funding to purchase an additional disability hoist within the clubhouse building, complete pitch drainage of 1 full size rugby pitch and 1 full size football pitch and will support pavilion refurbishments and strengthen external security provisions at the site.

GetAwayNGetSafe (GANGS) project which delivers early intervention aimed at young people to challenge attitudes towards gang culture, knife carrying and social responsibility. This has already been implemented at 20 schools in Moss Side, Wythenshawe and Longsight and due to its success, the funding is being used to roll this out across further areas.

Non-profits which benefit a large number of people can apply for a maximum of £20,000 to fund 12 months’ activities. The activities must support GMP’s objectives to fight, prevent and reduce crime; keep people safe; and care for victims. More information about ARIS funding applications here: Giving back: Investing in our community | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)

Detective Superintendent Joe Harrop who leads the Economic Crime Unit, said:

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“As a team we continue to create more innovative ways to recover criminal assets and GMP is one of the leading forces in the UK for seizing and recovering criminal funding.

“Just under half of the money is returned to GMP through the Home Office ARIS funding scheme which is used to fund local initiatives and charities - this shows that the money recovered is used to benefit the communities across Greater Manchester.

“We have a number of highly skilled police officers and staff across a number of teams that make up the Economic Crime Unit, who collectively use a variety of options available under the Proceeds of Crime Act, including cash seizure powers, listed asset powers (such as seizing high value jewellery, watches and artwork) and bank account freezing orders. 

“However well-hidden the cash and assets are – we will seize, recover and forfeit criminal funds to ensure that the money is not used to further serious and violent criminality in Greater Manchester.

“Let this be a stark reminder to anyone who believes that they can use illegitimate finances to fund their criminality – we will find it, forfeit it and reinvest that money back into the communities across Greater Manchester.

“Stripping criminals of their finances has a substantial impact on crime – I hope this figure serves as a reminder that tackling economic crime is a relentless task – our teams will continue to work diligently behind the scenes to ensure that those involved in criminal behaviour are brought to justice and pay the price for their crimes.”

“If you see, or suspect something is wrong, tell us, and we can sort it."

 

Anyone with concerns or information about suspicious financial activity, should report to police online, if able, at www.gmp.police.uk or via 101. 

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

For fraud prevention advice and to keep up to date with the Economic Crime Unit’s latest news - follow @gmpfraud on Twitter.

At around 4am yesterday morning (Saturday 7 January 2023), Greater Manchester Police were called to a report of a stabbing at Cramond Walk, Bolton.

Officers attended and three men had very serious injuries to their stomach, at the time of the incident two of the victims had life threatening injuries and one life changing. All are still in a serious condition at hospital receiving treatment.

Subsequently a 21-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of attempt murder and remains in police custody for questioning.

Enquiries are continuing at this time to establish the full circumstances.

Superintendent Mark Kenny, said:

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"This was a serious assault, but I would like to reassure residents that we have taken swift action to identify and arrest the suspect. This action means there is no wider threat to the community, and the investigation is being progressed as a priority for Greater Manchester Police.

"Our investigation is ongoing, and I would ask that anyone with information, or if people witnessed this incident, or may have dashcam/CCTV footage, contact Bolton CID on 0161 656 5757 quoting log number 512 of the 07/01/23.

Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

 

At 7pm on Saturday 7th January, officers responded to reports of a suspected firearms incident on Daventry Road, Rochdale.

After an initial investigation it is believed damage has been caused to a bus operating in the area with windows being smashed. The cause of the damage is not yet known and detectives are investigating the incident. 

Thankfully only minor injuries were sustained by two passengers on the bus. Officers deployed to the scene commenced a thorough investigation and detectives have subsequently arrested a male, who cannot be named for legal reasons on suspicion of criminal damage with intent to endanger life, and is assisting with their enquiries.

There is a police presence in the area whilst the scene is processed as part of the investigation. Patrols plans have been increased in the area to provide visible reassurance to the community following this incident. 

Detectives are now appealing for witnesses or anyone with further information that may help with their investigation, including doorbell or dash cam footage, to make contact.

Anyone who can help is asked to contact 101 quoting incident number 2586 of 07/01/23. Alternatively, details can be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

On Friday 6 January, at approximately 2pm, the Operation Vulcan officers were alerted to another counterfeit shop on Moulton Street, Strangeways, where the shop keepers had locked members of the public in against their will whilst they ran off with the keys in an attempt to escape.

Officers detained one of the spotters who had alerted the shop keepers of the police presence and located a key fob to the shop. Unfortunately, the shutters had deliberately been disabled from the inside and there was no way of getting in (or out) easily.

Officers had to break down the shutters to get inside, where they found 12 people locked inside, including a young child.

Three men have been arrested on suspicion of false imprisonment and trademark offences. They remain in police custody for questioning.

Inspector Andrew Torkington, one of Operation Vulcan's specialist officers said: 

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"This was a dangerous and unsettling situation we encountered. The owners of the shop had disabled the shutters and locked the customers inside, all in an effort to stop police finding and seizing their counterfeit items. Had we not been able to get inside the shop, who knows how long the members of the public would have been stuck inside before the owners braved returning.

"Counterfeiting is a crime, which is why the shop keepers are so desperate to avoid police detection. These clothes are of dubious, often dangerous quality, manufactured in filthy and appalling conditions. They're being shipped to the UK where fake logos are applied by staff who are forced to work in exploitative conditions. They are then sold across shops in Cheetham Hill, which, as we've mentioned before, these buildings are structurally unsafe, littered with rat urine and faeces, and manned by shopkeepers who have weapons stashed.

"Operation Vulcan has been set up to disrupt every level of criminality in this area. We are less than one week into 2023 and this is the second largescale store that we will empty, close, and prosecute those responsible. Cheetham Hill and Strangeways will no longer be synonymous with counterfeit goods.

 

Police have issued an urgent appeal after a 14-year-old boy went missing whilst on a trip to the People's History Museum in Manchester city centre.

Samuel is said to have been last seen at around 11am on Thursday morning (5th January) at nearby Gartside Street and police are becoming 'increasingly concerned' for his welfare and are appealing for information to help locate him.

He is described as being 5ft 7ins tall, having short brown hair and was wearing a dark coloured raincoat, black workwear boots and green cargo type pants at the time of his disappearance.

GMP made an online appeal asking for the publics help in finding him:

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"Can you help find Samuel from #Manchester?

"Samuel was last seen on Gartside Street at 11am on Thursday 5 January 2023."

 

Anyone with any information about Samuel's whereabouts are being urged to contact Greater Manchester Police, calling 101 quoting log 1299 of 05/01/2023.

A group of drug dealers from Manchester who supplied up to £10 million worth of drugs across the region before being uncovered by officers have been jailed for over 40 years.

Illyas Abudaber (19/03/1999), of Birchfields Road, Fallowfield, Hamam Alhamruni (26/06/1998), of Nevada Street, Ardwick, Hamza Azouz (20/12/1991), of Bexington Road, Alexandra Park and Ebrahim Saidgh (01/02/2000) and Mohammed Sadigh (13/01/1992), both of Quantock Street in Moss Side, were all jailed for a total of 42 years and four months at Manchester Crown Court on Wednesday 4 January 2023.

Illyas Abudaber was sentenced to 12 years for conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs, possession of a firearm, ammunition. Along with possession with intent to supply Class A and B drugs, possession of criminal property, dangerous driving and handling stolen goods.

Mohammed Sadigh was jailed for 11 years for conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs with Ebrahim Sadigh and Hamza Azouz receiving seven and six years respectively for the same offences. Whilst Hamam Alhamruni was given six years and four months for conspiracy to supply Class A and B drugs along with breaching a suspended sentence.

An investigation was first launched following a road traffic collision on Wilmslow Road in Rusholme, Manchester, back in 2017 where a stolen car was pursued, located and seized.

Following thorough searches and forensic examination, a number of mobile phones, cannabis and cocaine were seized from the vehicle. One of the phones seized was attributed to Ilyas Abudaber and showed he was involved in the supply of drugs as directed by Mohammed Sadigh.

This was the start of what was a long-running and complex investigation that has revealed a gang of dealers who were operating across Manchester as a result.

After a further pursuit in 2019 of a stolen vehicle on Princess Parkway in Moss Side, it later uncovered more drugs, cash and stolen property as well as the possession of a loaded viable firearm with ammunition.

It was found that the gang, who operated at different levels in their own enterprise, were involved in distributing what could have been up to £10 million worth of drugs.

Detective Sergeant Richard Bolt from GMP's Serious Crime Division, said:

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"These sentences are a clear reflection on the impact that this group of individuals have caused on the public in Manchester. Drug dealing has consequences and affects those beyond the drug dealers and drug users.

"This operation has seen not only drugs, cash, lethal firearms and weapons removed off the streets, but also the recovery of vehicles stolen from innocent members of the public as a result of their houses being burgled.

"These vehicles have then been used dangerously on the roads of Greater Manchester and ultimately involved in high-speed police pursuits risking the lives of people going about their normal day to day activities. This behaviour typifies the complete lack of regard to others these individuals have in their own pursuit of making money to fund their criminal lifestyles.

"The investigation has been complex and spanned a number of years, pulling together what may seem like isolated incidents in order to target those behind the 'street dealer'. This is in order to prosecute the people higher up the chain who often go unseen or unpunished for their actions. The convictions and the sentences show that it does not matter where in that chain you are, you are not removed from the attention of the police."

 

Detective Inspector Madeline Kelly, from GMP's the City of Manchester Xcalibre Task Force, whose team led the investigation, said:

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"These sentences are another excellent result for GMP and a testament to the hard work carried out by all involved. Our top priority is keeping the public safe and we are committed to taking firearms, weapons and drugs off the streets of Greater Manchester.

"We know that when we seize these items or put someone behind bars, that we can't stop there, and we will continue pursuing criminals across Manchester to bring them to justice and ensure the safety of the communities we serve. I would like to thank our officers for their work in successfully taking the higher echelons of this crime operation off our streets."

 

At approximately 3pm on Tuesday 3 January 2023 whilst Operation Vulcan officers were conducting high visibility patrols in the Cheetham Hill and Strangeways area, they were stopped by a panicked boy who said his mum had been locked inside a shop on Harris Street, Cheetham Hill.

The spotters, who you regularly see loitering in the area, had alerted the illegitimate shop owners of the approaching officers. 

Officers forced entry under section 17 – an emergency warrant that is granted to preserve life – and rescued the mum and a further 20 people who had been trapped inside by the shopkeepers who had been spooked by the police presence.

A subsequent search of the building led officers to discover over £8,000 cash and two large floors containing counterfeit clothing. These items will shortly be recycled and repurposed into household items, with anything unsafe being destroyed. 

Two men, aged 26 and 28 were arrested on suspicion of false imprisonment and conspiracy to commit trademark offences. Their arrest led to three further locations being searched which resulted in a further £5000 cash being recovered and a large amount of counterfeit clothing being seized. Both males were interviewed and have been bailed with conditions.

Detective Superintendent Neil Blackwood who is leading Operation Vulcan said:

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“We’ve heard whispers that the illegitimate shop owners thought Op Vulcan was just a short-lived operation over Christmas, and that in the New Year, all would be forgotten. I hope this weeks action will demonstrate that Operation Vulcan is here to stay, and my team and I will be relentlessly pursuing anyone who decides to commit criminality in this area.

“The illicit money made from the counterfeit items funds serious organised crime, and we will do everything in our power to strip criminals of their finances and reinvest it back into communities across Manchester.

“This latest seizure will make a dent in finances of the serious organised crime gangs operating in the area, but I’d like to take this time to again emphasise the danger that members of the public are in when they shop here."