Operation Vulcan: Black Friday sales in Cheetham Hill shut down

At around 6pm last night (Thursday 24 November 2022), officers were called to reports of a disturbance at a shop in Cheetham Hill.

It is believed that two women were assaulted by men working in the shop and an investigation is now underway.

Officers attending the scene also uncovered another illicit store.

This morning, the Op Vulcan team are removing thousands of items of dangerous counterfeit goods, and a heavy police presence is expected at the scene throughout the day.

Sergeant Dan Cullum, one of Operation Vulcan’s specialist officers, said: “This is an important and timely reminder of the dangers posed to members of the public who shop in the area.

“These shops are illegal, unregulated and owners consider themselves beyond reproach. 

“Black Friday weekend is a busy time for the illegal traders in Cheetham Hill and I would urge you to reconsider shopping at anything other than a legitimate retail outlet. 

“Op Vulcan is challenging the mindset that this counterfeit sales activity is tolerated and acceptable in Greater Manchester and the team are dedicated to ridding the Cheetham Hill and Strangeways areas of criminality.”