Morning raids see six arrests following Blackley robberies

Police investigating a series of robberies involving school children in the Blackley area have made six arrests.

 

This morning (Tuesday 27 April 2021), officers from Greater Manchester Police's Operation Valiant team, assisted by the Cheetham Hill and Higher Blackley neighbourhood team, carried out warrants at five addresses across North Manchester and Salford and have arrested six people - aged between 15 and 18 - on suspicion of robbery. They all remain in custody for questioning.

 

A number of items of clothing and phones were seized and have been sent for forensic examination as enquiries continue.

 

These arrests are in relation to a series of robberies involving school children that took place in the Prestwich and Blackley area between Monday 22^nd March and Tuesday 23 March 2021.

 

The warrants were carried out by Operation Valiant - a dedicated operation set up by Greater Manchester Police to keep the community and their belongings safe by reducing the number of personal robberies across Greater Manchester.

 

Sergeant Helen Fletcher, of GMP's Operation Valiant, said: "Ensuring the safety of our young people is something we take incredibly seriously, and I hope that today's arrests show the dedication and commitment of the team in investigating these offences.

 

"I am aware that there has been an understandable amount of concern from the community following these robberies, and I would like to reassure local residents that although we currently have six individuals in custody, our investigation does not stop here.

 

"Targeting school children with such violence is completely cruel and abhorrent. We will not tolerate this behaviour and shall carry on working tirelessly with our enquiries so that those responsible face justice. 

 

"Even though a number of arrests have been made, proactive police patrols will remain present in the area as pupils arrive and leave school. If you have any concerns or worries, please speak to our officers who will be able to assist."