Police in south Manchester have launched a major new operation to tackle the rise in burglary.
Operation Tempest will target burglary hotspots and individuals suspected of committing burglaries. The operation will also see scores of officers take to the streets to deter and disrupt criminals.
Throughout the six-month operation police in south Manchester will also be supported by officers from specialist units including Mounted, Dog Section, Tactical Aid and Firearms Units, the Forensic Support Unit and Air Support.
Superintendent Simon Barraclough said: “Burglary is an unacceptable crime and I want to send a clear message out to burglars that your actions will not be tolerated. We are deploying a number of tactics to bring criminals to justice and it is only a matter of time before we catch you out.
“Being broken into is a traumatic experience for victims; not only do they lose their valuables but many are too scared to be in their home for months afterwards. Nobody should be afraid of living in their own home and it is because of this that we will be pumping so many of our resources into Operation Tempest.
“Residents can help us bang up burglars by reporting any suspicious activity to the police on 0161 872 5050. Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
Operation Tempest will also be used as a platform for neighbourhood officers to distribute crime prevention advice to residents. One in three burglaries are still down to people leaving doors and windows open and police are keen for residents to follow safety advice and lock up.
Superintendent Barraclough added: “You can keep your home safe from burglars by locking all external doors and windows, getting a burglar alarm fitted and using it every time you go out or go to bed. If the house is empty leave a light on or use a plug-in timer to turn on lights and radios to give the impression that the house is occupied.”
Operation Tempest is part of a wider GMP initiative, Operation Storm that is working to drive down burglaries and increase detections.


