The area of land around the primary scene continues to be searched by specialist officers and staff, but so far there have been no human remains or clothing recovered from the site.

A meticulous examination of an initial area began last Friday (30 September 2022), after an Author named Edward Russell who had been researching the murder of Keith Bennett reported possible human remains having been discovered at a desolate spot on the moors.

Keith was 12-years-old when he went missing in 1964. He was one of five victims of Ian Brady and Myra Hindley – three of whom were found buried on Saddleworth Moor.

Samples obtained by Mr Edward Russell have now been sent by GMP to accredited experts for analysis, which is ongoing.

Additional resources have been deployed to enable the completion of a more extensive examination of the area.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Cheryl Hughes, of GMP’s Force Review Unit, said:

Quote

 

“Forensic Archaeologists and Forensic Anthropologists have now completed a methodical archaeological excavation and examination of the area previously dug and refilled by the member of the public. No bones, fabric or items of interest were recovered from the soil.

“These accredited and certified forensic experts are now continuing with a methodical and controlled excavation of the area immediately surrounding the original site to provide a higher level of assurance of the presence or absence of any items of interest. Further soil samples have been taken for analysis, but at this time there is no visible evidence to suggest the presence of human remains. The scene examination is ongoing.

“A report of possible human remains is always treated with seriousness. As such, we have deployed police search advisors who can support our scenes of crimes officers – this will result in more visible and high profile tactics, such as officers walking in lines to identify any potential sites of focus.

“GMP is committed to providing Keith’s family with answers following this report, both from the physical excavation and subsequent analysis of his will take some time but we will keep the family updated at every stage and request that their privacy is respected.

“We have seen the outpouring of support since this news broke so know how our communities feel about this case but we are asking members of the public not to travel to the area and can assure them that we will provide timely and appropriate updates.”

 

Police investigating a potential gravesite for moors murder victim Keith Bennett have revealed that so far they have found no identifiable human remains at the scene on the bleak and windswept Saddleworth Moor.

The investigation commenced this morning following bad weather at the site which forced the investigation to be suspended after safety concerns.

The informant along with experts involved in the search, came forward to police with photographic evidence which purports to be part of a human skull and a section of jawbone, however police have not been able to examine any physical evidence of such so far.

Keith was reported missing on June 16th 1964, having been lured into a van by Ian Brady and Myra Hindley, he was never seen alive again and is thought to have been buried on the moors along with other victims of the evil couple who have both since died, taking the secret of his resting place to their graves.

Keith remains the only body not to have been recovered.

Senior Investigating Officer Cheryl Hughes said:

Quote

 

“Following information received which indicated that potential human remains had been found on the Moors, specialist officers have today (1 October 2022) resumed excavation of a site identified to us.

“This information included photographs of the site and show what experts working with the informant have interpreted as a human jaw bone. No physical evidence of a jaw-bone or skull has been examined.

“However, based on the photographs and information provided, and in line with GMP’s usual practice to follow-up any suggestion of human burial, we began our search of the site of interest.

“We have not found any identifiable human remains but our work to excavate the site is continuing. 

“Conditions are difficult and it may take us some time to fully complete the excavation, but we are committed to ensuring this is undertaken in the most thorough way possible."

 

Police forensics officers are currently investigating suspected human remains which have been uncovered upon Saddleworth Moor.

The discovery came after an author who had been searching for evidence of the burial place of moors murderer victim Keith Bennett, contact police to say he had discovered a human skull.

Police stress that no formal identification has so far taken place and it could be several weeks before a DNA match can be ascertained.

Police remain at the location as the investigation continues.

GMP Force Review Officer Martin Bottomley said:

Quote

 

“At around 11.25am on Thursday 29 September 2022, Greater Manchester Police was contacted by the representative of an author who has been researching the murder of Keith Bennett, a victim of Ian Brady and Myra Hindley. Following direct contact with the author, we were informed that he had discovered what he believes are potential human remains in a remote location on the Moors and he agreed to meet with officers yesterday afternoon to elaborate on his find and direct us to a site of interest.

“The site was assessed late last night and, this morning, specialist officers have begun initial exploration activity. We are in the very early stages of assessing the information which has been brought to our attention but have made the decision to act on it in line with a normal response to a report of this kind.

“It is far too early to be certain whether human remains have been discovered and this is expected to take some time.

“We have always said that GMP would act on any significant information which may lead to the recovery of Keith and reunite him with his family. As such, we have informed his brother of the potential development - he does not wish to be contacted at this time and asks that his privacy is respected.”

 

James Rourke (02/02/88) of Ventnor Street, Salford and Mitchell Murdern (11/01/02) of Carina Place, Salford were today (Tuesday 27 September 2022) sentenced to four years and eight months and two years' imprisonment respectively after pleading guilty to conspiracy to convey list A, B and C items in to HMP Forest Bank.

The pair were caught after officers identified them as being two of the individuals on CCTV throwing objects in to the exercise yards between September and November 2021. Following warrants at their homes and associated properties, class A, B and C drugs were seized alongside a drone, tobacco and mini mobile phones.

The investigating officer said:

Quote

 

“The conveyance of illegal items into our prisons is a growing and evolving threat. Drugs empower Organised Crime Groups on both sides of the prison walls fuelling violence, exploitation and bullying especially due to the vast, inflated profits to be made.

“The close collaboration between HMPPS, GMP and HMP Forest Bank, under Operation Dragonfire, has led to the dismantling of this local OCG responsible for conveying a huge number of illegal items into the prison. The number of throw overs at the prison has now fallen and it is a safer community at Forest Bank for officers, staff and prisoners.”

 

Anyone with information about this type of crime should contact gmp via gmp.police.uk or 101 quoting Operation Dragonfire via gmp.police.uk. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Money, seized by criminals and distributed to police forces via the Asset Recovery Incentivisation Scheme (ARIS), is being invested into communities across Greater Manchester.

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.

Last year, successful applicants included GetAway’N’GetSafe. The money funded a project which uses sessions delivered via schools to encourage young people from Manchester to turn away from a life of crime and inspire them to take control of their futures and achieve their dreams.

Superintendent Estelle Mathieson said:

Quote

 

“This is an excellent opportunity for the many projects which benefit Greater Manchester’s communities.

“Offenders often commit crimes for their own financial gain so this is an important part of the criminal justice system and ensures we can give back in one way or another.

“We are excited to hear how this money helps fight, prevent and reduce crime; keep people safe; and care for victims. Ultimately, making Greater Manchester a better place to live, work and visit.”

 

Applicants should apply via Giving back: Investing in our community | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)

Patrols around mosques and Islamic centres in Greater Manchester have been increased in response to incidents in Manchester City Centre.

At around 11.20pm last night (Sunday 25 September 2022), we received a report of a disturbance involving a large group of people at the Islamic Centre on Sidney Street. Officers attended and established that one man had sustained a small cut to his face whilst external walls of the building and a vehicle parked outside had been vandalised, with graffiti making reference to recent events in Iran. One man has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and remains in police custody for questioning.

Earlier in the day, there had been disturbances during protests in the centre.

Superintendent Ian Jones, of GMP’s City of Manchester district, said:

Quote

 

“We understand the concern these incidents will cause our communities so have increased patrols in locations of significance, both to reassure people and keep them safe.

“Meanwhile, enquiries are ongoing in relation to the disturbances - with officers following a number of lines of enquiry to identify those responsible for these crimes and send a clear message that this behaviour will not be tolerated in Greater Manchester.”

 

Anyone with information should contact GMP via gmp.police.uk or 101 quoting 3373 25/09/22. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Officers are becoming increasingly concerned regarding the whereabouts of Henry Mason Holden, 13, of Clitheroe in Lancashire. Henry was last seen on Salford Road, Over Hulton in the Westhoughton/Bolton area around 21:25 hours on Thursday 22 September 2022.

Henry is described as being approximately 5’ 2” with medium brown hair styled in a buzz cut. He has dark brown eyes, button nose and a defined jaw line. He is slim but muscly and walks with a wide stride. Henry was last seen wearing his school uniform (see attached photograph) from Clitheroe Royal Grammar School.

Henry left school on the afternoon of Thursday 22 September 2022, after telling a friend he was going to Manchester. The last time he was spoken to, Henry appeared to be in a confused state and reported that he was lost.

Officers are keen to ensure that Henry is safe and well and encourages anyone with any information to contact GMP on 101 quoting reference 3375/22/09/22 or 999 in an emergency.

Yesterday (7 September 2022), officers from GMPs Economic and Cyber Crime team and Specialist Operations, executed a number of searches of vehicles and properties in Cheetham Hill, as well as an address in Mossley, Tameside.

Subsequently, £97,800 cash as well as a number of high value watches were seized and two males aged 29 and 31 were arrested on suspicion of money laundering. They remain in custody for questioning.

Temporary Detective Superintendent Joseph Harrop, of the Economic and Cyber Crime Team, said:

Quote

 

“ This seizure is another very positive result for Op Falcon who despite being set up less than four months ago, has already seen hundreds of thousands pounds seized.

“Cash-based money laundering costs the UK economy billions of pounds and is illicit cash which often serves as the motivator for serious and organised crime. Operation Falcon will continue and we’ll be carrying on with targeting those suspected to be involved in money laundering and aim to seize their assets and cash so they can be reinvested into the communities who need it.

“No matter how hard attempts are made to hide the money through front businesses, we will find it, forfeit it, and reinvest it back into the community of Greater Manchester.”

 

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 our website: www.gmp.police.uk

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

Greater Manchester Police welcomes a record number of call handler recruits to Force Contact Centre

Today, Monday 5 September 2022, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) welcomed its largest ever intake of 54 new call handlers at Sedgley Park Training Centre.

The new starters are set to undergo an intensive 7-week training course and once complete, they will join colleagues in the Force Contact Centre (FCC) who are the voice of GMP.

Once they’ve completed their 7 weeks training, the new starters will then spend some time in mentoring with an established GMP call handler. After this key stage, they will then join the FCC ranks on the frontline of Greater Manchester Policing.

The FCC are often the first point of contact for victims of crime and people in crisis. The training these aspiring call handlers are set to undertake will prepare them for the thousands of emergency calls that GMP receives every single day.

The sheer volume of calls received is partly the reason why the force is bolstering its ranks to meet the demand.

The recruitment drive comes in the wake of one of the most challenging periods in GMP’s history, when the force was placed in Special Measures in June last year. At the time, it was identified the force was not responding appropriately to victims of crime and during the peak summer period of 2021, 999 callers were waiting on average 89 seconds for an answer.

Astounding progress has been made since then and at the end of August 2022 - during the period of highest demand - FCC averaged just 9 seconds to answer emergency 999 calls, which is within the national target set at 10 seconds. These improvements have resulted in the force climbing the national 999 emergency league table month on month.

Similarly, the response time to answer non-emergency 101 calls, which averaged 8 minutes in June 2021, clocked in at 50 seconds in August 2022. Innovative digital technologies have also been embraced by the force and GMP are now leading the way in live chat and online reporting.

Improvements have also been made by introducing a new incident response policy, which allows for better prioritisation of calls and co-ordinating of response. Ultimately, this means getting a faster response to the people who need it most.

The new recruits have been greeted at Sedgley Park by Chief Superintendent Chris Gibson and Head of Contact Management and Business Transformation Martine Craven.

Chief Superintendent Chris Gibson of GMP’s Force Contact Centre said:

Quote

 

“The last year has really shone a light on the extraordinary efforts of our workforce and their determination to provide better service for our communities and the people who need it most.

“I’m delighted to see more people than ever before joining us in the FCC. Our call handlers help save and change lives every day - they work in an environment that is challenging and where demand at times can be constant. It’s also a fulfilling, hugely rewarding and inspiring career and I welcome everyone who has accepted an offer to join us.”

 

It’s never been a better time to join the Greater Manchester Police Force Contact Centre. The force is undergoing a major recruitment drive as part of an investment plan, which aims to secure further recruitment growth.

Join the FCC today and find out what you are capable of on the front line of policing. Roles are available in call handling, crime recording, customer enquiry and radio dispatch. Find out more, or apply today, by visiting the careers section on GMP's website: Force Contact Centre | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk).

A public consultation has been launched inviting Greater Manchester residents, community groups, and local businesses to have their say on exciting new plans to make more outdoor spaces smokefree in Greater Manchester.  

It follows the recent announcement that the city-region has joined the Partnership for Healthy Cities and committed to creating more smokefree spaces to protect everyone from the harm of tobacco and prevent younger generations from taking up smoking.  

Under the new plans, several outdoor areas will become healthier, greener, smokefree spaces, meaning people will be asked to refrain from smoking whilst in the designated smokefree zone. Areas under consideration include parks and green spaces, children’s play areas, high streets, town squares, and areas within the immediate vicinity of schools and public buildings.

The public consultation has been launched to seek the views of local people and community representatives. This will include suggestions on the places they’d most like to see become smokefree and is a great opportunity for the public to play an active part in shaping the initiative.  
 
Following the consultation, plans are set to be finalised in autumn with the first new smokefree space expected by the end of the year.

Paul Dennett, Chair of Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership Board and Deputy Mayor for Greater Manchester, said:  

Quote

 

“Across Greater Manchester there are already plenty of outdoor smokefree spaces that have been introduced by local authorities, schools and community groups.

“The people of Greater Manchester now have the opportunity to have their say on our plans to introduce more smokefree spaces for everyone to enjoy.

“As it stands, places in Greater Manchester have some of the highest smoking rates in the country and this initiative is part of our important work to make smoking history, to improve the health and wellbeing of our population and prevent younger generations from ever starting smoking and getting hooked on a deadly addiction.

“We know that extending smokefree outdoor spaces already has significant support from local people. Consultations carried out in 2018i showed us that 8 out of 10 people thought it was a good idea – with areas of most concern including children’s playgrounds, school entrances and outside public libraries and town halls.” 

 

The plans are supported by a £79,000 ($100,000) grant from the Partnership for Healthy Cities – an initiative of Bloomberg Philanthropies, the World Health Organization and Vital Strategies – which will be used to create more smokefree spaces across the city-region and shift cultural and societal attitudes towards smoking. The first phase of the project will be delivered by Manchester City Council and NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care, on behalf of Greater Manchester Integrated Care Partnership. 

Ariella Rojhani, Director of the Partnership for Healthy Cities, said:

Quote

“We applaud Greater Manchester for creating an opportunity for residents to help ensure the spaces they use every day will be smokefree. Through this work, Greater Manchester is building a legacy as a city-region that cares deeply about health and wellbeing, not just now but well into the future.”

To share your views, go to https://www.makesmokinghistory.co.uk/get-involved/smokefree-spaces/ to take part in the online survey. Plus, those that complete the survey by Sunday 11 September will be entered into a prize draw to win a £100 Amazon voucher (T&Cs apply).

Police are appealing for the public’s help to trace a wanted man from Tameside.

Jake Anderson (21/01/2001) is wanted for kidnap, robbery, threats to damage and breach of community order.

Anderson is known to have links to the Tameside and Salford areas of Greater Manchester.

Anybody with information regarding the whereabouts of Jake Anderson is asked to contact police on 0161 856 5815 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

RECYCLE for Greater Manchester is set to expand the range of materials that can be recycled at its recycling centres, as new figures show a strong increase in recycling rates across the city-region.

As part of a trial, Greater Manchester residents can now recycle hard plastics such as old plastic garden furniture or children’s toys that are broken or no longer usable. The hard plastics are bulked up and taken to a reprocessor where they are recycled into new plastic products.

With more containers added for different types of materials, the recycling centres are no longer a place where waste is simply thrown away; nearly all household waste can be either recycled, reused, upcycled or composted. The majority of the items brought to the centres are recycled locally in the Northwest and very little goes to landfill, in fact less than 2% of all household waste in Greater Manchester ends up in landfill.

The announcement comes as new figures show that in May, recycling rates increased on average to over 52%, with some sites reaching 60%.

Cllr Martyn Cox, GMCA lead for the Green City Region and waste and recycling, said: 

Quote

“There have been many improvements to our recycling centres over recent years and it’s great to see the recycling rate increasing. Through our partnership with SUEZ UK who manage the sites, they’ve been able to identify new recycling outlets such as for hard plastics and mattresses. That means we can recycle more and more of our household waste. And through our Renew shops we’re able to support many of our communities and people in need.”

Containers are also available for recycling mattresses and carpets. Mattresses are taken to a facility in Bolton which is run by the Furniture Recycling Group (TFR). Here, they are broken down into 19 different component parts including steel, cotton, polyester, and foam. Some of the fabrics end up in the car manufacturing process whilst others go into making stab proof vests!

Around 167,000 tonnes of mattresses still get landfilled in the UK every year - this is around 7 million mattresses! Every month, TFR Group recycle around 15,000 mattresses, all of which come from the containers at the recycling centres across Greater Manchester.

Reuse is also high on the agenda at the recycling centres, with ‘Renew’ containers situated at 18 of the 20 sites. These are for any items that are in good condition or need minor repairs. Once the items have been donated at the recycling centres, they’re taken to the Renew Hub in Trafford Park, where they’re cleaned, sorted and repaired ready to be sold in one of the three Renew shops, or via the new eBay shop.

The Renew shops opened in 2021 and are located at Woodhouse Lane, Trafford; Boysnope Wharf, Salford; and Arkwright St, Oldham recycling centres. All money raised from sales of the pre-loved items goes towards two good causes: the Greater Manchester Mayor’s Charity and R4GM Community Fund.

John Wrigley, Regional Director for SUEZ recycling and recovery UK said: 

Quote

“We are really proud of the recycling rates that we’re now achieving across all of our sites in Greater Manchester. Since we took on the contract in 2019 we have focused on bringing in the right partnerships enabling us to recycle more materials, such as carpets and mattresses, with hard plastics being the latest material to be added. We work closely with Recycle for Greater Manchester to ensure that residents are aware of what to do with their waste items, and if anybody is unsure on site our operatives are always on hand to help.”

There are 20 recycling centres available free of charge for residents. They are open 7 days a week, most sites from 8am to 8pm. If you are visiting in a van, you will need a permit.

Find out more: https://www.recycleforgreatermanchester.com.

British Transport Police have issued a CCTV image of a man they wish to speak with regarding a sexual assault at Piccadilly Train Station in Manchester.

During the incident which took place at 7:20pm on the 7th July , the man followed a teenage girl from the ticket barriers to Café Nero whereupon he sexually assaulted her.

Police are calling on members of the public to help identify a man they think could help with their investigations.

A BTP spokesperson, said:

Quote

 

"Do you recognise this man? Officers investigating a sexual assault at Manchester Piccadilly station are today releasing this CCTV image in connection.

"At 7.20pm on Thursday 7 July, a man followed a teenage girl from the ticket barriers to Café Nero. He then sexually assaulted her.

"Officers believe the man in the CCTV image may have information which could help their investigation.

"If you recognise him, or have any information, please contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 537 of 07/07/22. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."

 

Detectives leading the hunt to bring the killers of Kennie Carter to justice are appealing for those with information to give themselves and Kennie’s loved ones closure, as the teenager’s family plea for information ahead of his first birthday since he was fatally stabbed in Stretford in January.

Kennie was just 16-years-old when he was chased by a group of teenagers and attacked on Thirlmere Avenue on the evening of Saturday 22 January as he was walking home alone.

Tragically, he suffered a fatal single stab wound to the chest and could not be saved by paramedics and responding officers at the scene despite their best efforts.

Investigators from Greater Manchester Polices' Major Incident Team have since embarked on a wide-ranging and complex murder inquiry; which has seen over 20 warrants executed, 14 arrests made, in excess of 100 hours of CCTV meticulously viewed, and around 80 people spoken to in relation to the investigation.

Ten teenage boys – aged between 13 and 18 – remain under investigation as efforts continue until Kennie’s family have got the justice they deserve for their son.

But police are still looking for that vital breakthrough and the community’s help to bring this case to court and find justice for Kennie’s family.

Kennie was just 16 when he suffered a fatal stab wound to the chest - officers on the case continue to seek justice for him and his family

Six months on, his parents are preparing for Kennie’s first birthday without him on Sunday 24 July, as police continue to appeal alongside them for anyone who may have heard or know information about what happened that night to contact them to allow closure for all involved in the tragedy.

Detective Chief Inspector Alicia Smith, Senior Investigating Officer in the murder probe, said:

Quote

 

“We have worked relentlessly on this investigation since it began on that devastating evening six months ago, and our work does not stop in bringing to justice those responsible for Kennie’s death.

“I want to be clear to anyone thinking this will just go away over time: murder investigations do not close, we do not stop pursuing every available line of enquiry - and doing whatever we can - to find the truth, and to put behind bars whoever committed this cowardly attack.

“Kennie died from a single stab wound which suggests that only one of those present was responsible for the fatal blow. We are focusing on bringing that person to justice, and are remaining open minded to the role of others present.

“Too many young people have been affected from this truly traumatic event and they cannot move on or seek the help they need until the truth is out. It is only then can they begin to recover their young lives.

“Kennie’s parents, family, and friends continue to be denied closure and I urge anyone who has information - but has not yet told us what they know - to come forward so we can seek justice and closure for Kennie’s loved ones.”

 

Anyone can the contact police in confidence about this case by calling the major incident hotline on 0161 856 9908 quoting Operation Sandpiper.

Any footage or images from the night should be submitted to our online portal here: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP22S43-PO1

Information can be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555

Nine arrested during a joint operation targeting the counterfeit goods trade in the Cheetham Hill area of North Manchester.

This week (Monday 18 – Friday 22 July 2022), GMP, North West Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit, City of London Police’s Intellectual Property Crime Unit, the Intellectual Property Office and other partner agencies have executed warrants and exercised powers to fight, prevent and reduce crimes being committed in this area which have an impact locally, regionally and nationally.

  

Large quantities of counterfeit goods and drugs were seized, alongside a significant sum of cash.

Detective Superintendent Neil Blackwood said:

Quote

 

“This week of intensification is about so much more than the counterfeit goods trade, which Cheetham Hill and more specifically the Strangeways area is nationally known for.

“The trade, which often involves organised crime groups, is strongly linked to money laundering and immigration offences. We also know the area is a hotspot for sexual offences and traffic offences.

“Too often unbeknownst to members of the public who buy counterfeit goods, they are often produced using poor quality materials and/ or banned substances which put health at risk.

“Ourselves and our partner agencies are committed to ridding this area of criminal activity and will use all powers at our disposal. We will be taking proactive and robust action against this trade in Strangeways. Members of the public can be reassured that this is a priority for us.”

 

Detective Sergeant Adam Williams from the Police Intellectual Property Unit (PIPCU) at the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit (NWROCU) said:

Quote

 

"Whenever we receive intelligence about illegal goods, we work closely with our colleagues at the City of London Police, local forces and other partners to investigate and take appropriate action. This week’s activity should send a clear message that we will stop at nothing to tackle this issue and it's a priority we will continue to crack down on.

"The counterfeit goods trade isn’t a victimless crime. Often criminals use the profits to fund other organised crime, and with that often comes violence, which can have devastating effects on the local community. The staff employed to run these counterfeit shops are often vulnerable people who are paid below the minimum wage, whilst the criminals enjoy lavish lifestyles from the proceeds of their crimes.”

 

Detective Chief Inspector Suzanne Ferris, of the City of London Police’s Police Intellectual Property Crime Unit said:

Quote

 

“The low price of counterfeit goods makes them an appealing prospect to consumers, but the money spent on them often ends up lining the pockets of criminals.

“This week’s activity should send a strong message that the sale of counterfeit items will not be tolerated, and we will continue to work with our partners to crack down on the counterfeit goods trade in the Strangeways area.”

 

Information about crime can be shared via gmp.police.uk or 101. In an emergency, always dial 999. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

As part of the force's ongoing recruitment, additional officers are being deployed into our Specialist Operations branch who were involved in this week of action. If you'd like to join them, apply now: gmp.police.uk/recruitment 

Police have launched a murder investigation after they were called Yesterday morning (Thursday 20 July 2022) at 9:30am, to a report of a concern for the welfare of a male in a property on Edgbaston Drive, Stretford.

Officers attended and a man in his 80s was sadly confirmed dead at the scene.

Police say that a 51-year-old man has since been arrested on suspicion of murder.

The suspect remains in custody for questioning.

A police detective constable has been suspended after being charged with multiple instances of sex offences, some of which involved children.

Stephen Hardy based in the GMP Stockport division was charged with:

  Four counts of rape

  Two counts of possession of extreme pornographic materials

  Two counts of making/taking an indecent image of a child

  Two counts of causing/inciting a girl aged over 13 to engage in sexual activity

  One count of causing a girl over 13 to engage in sexual activity

  One count of causing a child to watch an image of a sexual act

  Five counts of sexual assault

  And Three counts of assault by penetration

The 45-year-old was suspended from duty and misconduct proceedings are to recommence after criminal proceedings have concluded.

GMP say that they received a report relating to Hardy in June 2020.

He us expected to appear in Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court on the 10th of August.

At around 12:30pm on Tuesday 19 July 2022, police received a report a serious collision on Manchester Road in the Westhoughton area.

Enquiries have established that a motorbike and a truck collided, leaving the motorcyclist with critical injuries.

The rider, a 33-year-old man, was sadly pronounced dead at the scene despite the best attempts of emergency services.

The driver of the truck – a man in his 60s - remained at the scene, was arrested on suspicion of death by dangerous driving, later being released under investigation.

Officers are particularly keen to speak to anyone who witnessed the collision, but would also like dashcam or mobile phone footage from the area in the moments before the collision.

PC Simon Venguedasalon, of SCIU's Specialist Operation, said:

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"My thoughts firstly go out to the loved ones of the man who has sadly lost his life and we are doing all we can to support his family at this difficult time.

"Work is well underway to understand the circumstances of this incident and after making an arrest at the scene, there is still a thorough investigation to take place.

"That is why we're appealing for the public to get in touch if they have any details or evidence that will help in this case to enable to piece together what is another tragic collision."

 

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 4741 quoting incident 1506 of 19/07/22.

Alternatively, details can be passed via our LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk or via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police have issued a public space protection order on Saddleworth Moor after four fires are thought to have been deliberately set in the past 4 days.

The new rules mean that it is now a criminal offence to ignite any kind of flame in open areas across the whole moorland, which includes but is not limited to the use of barbecues.

As the temperatures rose across the county, emergency services were called to deal with a number of incidents thought to have been the result of arsonists.

Police have warned that if caught, those responsible could end up up serving lengthy prison sentences if convicted.

The fires are seriously damaging the local ecosystems which can take decades to fully recover as well as additionally causing air pollution which is harmful to the publics health.

Superintendent Phil Hutchinson, of GMP's Oldham district, said:

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"In recent days, there have been a number of fires on the moorland behind us here at Dovestones Reservoir.

"Following extensive enquiries by Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and officers from GMP Oldham's CID, it is believed that at least four of these fires have been started deliberately.

"First and foremost, I would like to publicly reassure members of the public and warn offenders that we are following every line of enquiry to identify those responsible and being them to face justice.

"This is being treated as arson which, following conviction, can result in a lengthy prison sentence.

"As well as being criminal, it goes without saying that this behaviour is reckless and could have a devastating impact on the land, the wildlife and local residents – something we have seen before.

"Though extensive enquiries are ongoing in partnership with other agencies, I would like to use this opportunity to appeal to members of the public for information – particularly anyone who has seen anything suspicious or has mobile phone, dash or helmet cam footage which may assist us.

"In the coming days and week, particularly during the heatwave, members of the public who frequent at Dovestones are asked to report anyone they suspect of igniting any kind of flame in the area.

"Saddleworth Moor is currently subject to a Public Space Protection Order and, thus, the ignition of any kind of flame – including but not limited to barbecues – is a criminal offence. This includes the disposal of lit cigarettes. Breaching the order can result in a one thousand pound fine.

"Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via gmp.police.uk or 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

"Information about crime can also be reported anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

 

Detectives investigating the death of a man in Tameside earlier this month have made a third arrest.

A 27-year-old man was arrested in the borough on Saturday 16 July on suspicion of the murder of Thomas Campbell (38).

Investigators from our Major Incident Team interviewed the man before he was later released on police bail to allow for further enquiries.

A man and a woman – aged 37 and 38 respectively – have already been arrested before being charged with conspiracy to commit Thomas' murder.

Both have initially appeared at court and have been remanded in custody ahead of another hearing at Manchester Crown Court.

Mr Campbell was found unresponsive at an address on Riverside in the Mossley area at around 10.30am on Sunday 3 July 2022.

Despite the best efforts of emergency services, he was pronounced dead at the scene and a murder probe being led by our experienced detectives continues.

Detective Inspector Mark Davis, of our Major Incident Team, said:

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"Our dedicated team of detectives have been working extremely hard on this case ever since Thomas' was tragically found dead earlier this month.

"We continue to progress this investigation thoroughly and at pace, and are always keen to hear from anyone who may have information that they may not yet have told us as it could still be crucial to getting the answers Thomas' family crave.

"Do please contact us with anything you may know, at any time, by calling 101, or via the LiveChat facility on our website, quoting Operation Ravensburgh."

 

Information, images, video or dashcam footage can also be easily submitted to https://mipp.police.uk/operation/06GMP22G12-PO1.

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