Burglaries in parts of Wigan cut by two-thirds after police operation

A police operation has seen burglaries reduced by more than two-thirds in parts of Wigan.

Burglaries across the Wigan West district, particularly targeting the Aspull, Standish and Shevington areas, dropped from 105 in January to 33 in April - a drop of 69% - and there have also been 11 arrests as part of Operation Stara.

Focused patrols were increased in burglary hotspots from January to April in response to an increase in burglaries.

This included neighbourhood officers in uniform and plain clothes. In addition there were extra patrols by specialist officers from the GMP dog section and Tactical Vehicle Intercept Unit.

In partnership with the local authority, GMP Neighbourhood PCSOs revisited burglary victims and also other residents in the vicinity of burglaries and provided security packs.

The packs contained light timers, and support literature from the local authority and other agencies.

"Since the inception of Operation Stara at the start of 2021, a number of proactive operations have been conducted by officers in uniform and plain clothes," said Superintendent Mark Kenny from the Wigan district.

"This was an intelligence-led operation, which began following a rise in burglaries on empty homes or those occupied by elderly victims during the late afternoon or early evening hours from November 2020 to January 2021.

"Smashed rear windows and doors were frequent means of entry and jewellery was often stolen.

"Burglary has a massive impact on the victim, their family and the wider community and we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice and preventing further offences.

"The investigation team are continuing with their enquiries and aim to bring those responsible to justice and I would ask the public to contact us if they are aware of where stolen property is being taken or who is responsible."

Top tips to prevent being burgled

• Put your burglar alarm on at night-time and when you go out
• Lock all windows and doors
• Use a timer to switch lights on to give the impression someone is at home
• Don’t leave valuables on show
• Make valuable items traceable. Photograph your property and register it free of charge at www.immobilise.com
• Keep an eye out in your neighbourhood, and report anything suspicious to police

Notes to editors:

The total number of burglaries in the L1 policing area of Wigan was 105 in January 2021, dropping to 33 in April 2021