Greater Manchester Police: Operation Acquire launched

Extra police officers have been deployed to tackle theft and burglaries across Bolton and Greater Manchester.

Operation Acquire is a Greater Manchester Police initiative focused on vehicle crime, house burglaries, thefts and robbery.

Officers made 18 arrests last week when a similar operation was conducted   - executing eight warrants and carrying out 45 high visibility neighbourhood patrols.

Superintendent Ian Jones said: “First and foremost, I would like to highlight that our fight against this type of crime and our efforts to prevent and reduce it does not stop here.

“We have another day of action for Operation Acquire happening today with officers, again, conducting increased activity in a neighbourhood near you.

Greater Manchester Police was taken out of special measures last year (Image: Google Maps)

“Vehicle crimes, like all neighbourhood offences, are intrusive, and the offenders show a complete disregard for their community and those that live in our neighbourhoods, taking items which don’t belong to them.

“As a force, we are committed to delivering an outstanding service to our communities and we understand that they, rightly, expect that to include intensified efforts to keep both them and their property safe whilst caring for those who have unfortunately been targeted by criminals.”

The renewed focus on “neighbourhood crime” comes amid recent changes to GMP’s approach aimed at re-engaging with the public and improving the rate that investigations are resolved at.

Last October, the force was taken out of special measures with GMP recognised at the time as the “most improved” in the country by His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary.

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Initiatives like Operation Acquire are intended to try and maintain this connection with communities across the city region.

Superintendent Jones said: “We will absolutely continue to take action against those we believe are responsible for neighbourhood crime and intelligence from members of the public is vital and I would like to thank the public for their support so far with Operation Acquire.

“I ask that you continue to report to us or Crimestoppers and follow our crime prevention advice on gmp.police.uk to keep yourself, your property and your vehicle safe from crime.”

Anyone with any information or concerns can call GMP on 101 or independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 1111.