Greater Manchester Police response to knife crime: officers proactively stopping and searching in nine districts

In response to three fatal stabbings in Greater Manchester on three consecutive weekends and other recent incidents of violent crime, senior officers have authorised increased stopping and searching this weekend (Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 February 2022).  

The defined areas include:

- Manchester City Centre
- Broughton and Cheetham Hill, North Manchester
- Central Bolton
- Failsworth and Lime Side, Oldham
- Rochdale
- Broughton, Broughton Park and Kersal, Salford
- Central Stockport
- Tameside
- Stretford and Old Trafford, Trafford
- Westleigh and Wigan Road areas of Leigh, Wigan

Section 60 gives police the right to search people without reasonable grounds in a defined area at a specific time.

GMP Gold Commander Assistant Chief Constable Wasim Chaudhry said: "We don't make these decisions lightly but we do so to prevent serious violence and the use of weapons, ultimately to keep people safe.

"Following the fatal stabbing in Tameside last night, we've identified hot spots across Greater Manchester and are communicating with colleagues in those areas to increase resources this weekend and in the coming days and weeks.  

"Members of the public can expect to see extra uniformed officers in some communities - exercising their powers under Section 60, whilst reassuring anyone who is concerned and deterring criminal behaviour.

"I hope this news strongly reiterates that Greater Manchester Police will not tolerate people carrying knives or any other weapons for that matter and acts as a reminder that it can result in a prison sentence and lifelong criminal record."

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham said: "My thoughts, and the thoughts of people across Greater Manchester are with the families and communities affected by violence and knife crime.  

"We will only end youth violence by tackling its causes, that’s why through our Violence Reduction Unit we’re working with schools, grass roots community organisations, young people themselves and the police to put in place programmes of support and action.

"The police cannot end youth violence alone but they have a critical role to play in taking immediate action where they have intelligence that people are carrying knives and other weapons. That’s why I have agreed with the Chief Constable that GMP will step up their proactive approach in hotspot areas to keep young people safe.  

"We need everyone’s help to end youth violence, if you see anything that doesn’t feel right with a young person – your child, a family member or a friend please speak out. Contact the police, school or another trusted adult to get help and keep them safe."

We all have a part to play in fighting, preventing and reducing knife crime. If you know or suspect someone is carrying a knife, please report it immediately - before it is too late. You can contact GMP via gmp.police.uk or 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.