Police targeting criminal gangs swooped on 20 homes in North Manchester this morning.

Officers carried out search warrants at a number of addresses across the division in a bid to disrupt criminal behaviour.

Searches are being carried out at 20 addresses across Newton Heath, Miles Platting, Ancoats and Clayton.

They aim to track down offenders wanted for a series of offences. By disrupting criminal activity in the area they aim to improve the lives of people living in the communities.

In addition to the searches, Police Community Support Officers are handing out leaflets in the areas targeted in order to raise awareness in the community of the work that is being done.

Inspector Steve McFarlane from GMP's North Manchester Division said: "For the majority of the law abiding people living in North Manchester, tacking criminal behaviour is a priority.

"We are keen to make sure these people can live their lives without fear of criminal behaviour.

"However, this action is only possible with the support of the local community. I would appeal to anyone with any further information on the people responsible to contact their local area policing team.

"Any information we receive can be treated in confidence and could help to make the community a better place to live for everyone."