GMP Wigan target high demand areas and reduce crime in Platt Bridge
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This month, as Wigan continue the fight against criminals operating across the borough, seven warrants have been executed in the Platt Bridge area of Wigan, targeting drugs and stolen property.
In response to community concerns around anti-social behaviour, the district Neighbourhood Crime Team worked closely with local neighbourhood officers and partners to collect and develop intelligence, which led to these warrants.
As a result of this activity and increased presence in the area, there has been a decrease in serious acquisitive crime, notably burglary, theft, and vehicle crime.
So far, police have recovered several stolen motorbikes, quad bikes, cars, caravans, power tools and gardening equipment, and work is now ongoing to reunite them with their rightful owners. Cash, drugs, and a firearm have also been seized during these warrants, and nine arrests have been made. But the work does not stop here, and police are actively gathering more intelligence on suspects in the area.
Partners from Wigan Council were also in attendance, a valuable tactic which allows police to target the criminals from every angle, using all powers and policies available to tackle the criminality sustainably.
Inspector Crosthwaite from GMP Wigan district said: “We wanted to carry out this activity before Christmas because we understand the sentimental value these items can hold, bus also how intrusive it can feel to be a victim of burglary.
“We heard from partners and members in the community that they had serious concerns about anti-social behaviour in the area, and this action is in response to that. Community intelligence plays a huge role in our operations, so I’d encourage the public to keep talking to us, keep sharing your concerns and information so that we can act upon it.”
If you have any information that you would like to share with us, please contact us on 101, or by visiting gmp.police.uk. You can also contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.