Increased stop searches authorised in Rusholme to prevent violent robberies of mopeds

Police officers in Rusholme have been authorised to carry out increased stop searches from 6pm this evening (30 April 2023) until 6am tomorrow morning (Monday 1 May 2023), in response to intelligence received from the local community about moped robberies in the area.

Under Section 60, officers can stop search anyone in a defined area at a specific time.

Those carrying dangerous instruments or offensive weapons will be prosecuted.

The disruption tactic follows multiple incidents reported to police involving violent robberies of delivery drivers on mopeds in the area over the past couple of days.

Section 60 map

Superintendent Muzemil Kernain , of GMP's City of Manchester district, said: "We've made the decision to authorise Section 60 powers to prevent violence and keep people safe.

“Violence is completely unacceptable and will simply not be tolerated and I hope that by bringing in these preventative measures it will clearly demonstrate to the community that we are committed to tackling this type of reckless crime.

"Alongside increased stop searches, we have deployed extra uniformed officers who will be proactively patrolling hotspot areas.”

Greater Manchester Police can be contacted via gmp.police.uk or 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

Information about crime can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity - Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.