Christmas crackdown in Cheetham Hill as two counterfeit shops attempt to reopen

Today (Friday 10 November), Operation Vulcan executed warrants at premises on Bury New Road, shutting down and seizing half a million of pounds worth of counterfeit items.

Police warnings seem to have fallen on deaf ears for some counterfeit operations in the area. Attempts to re-open and profit from the Christmas sales however continue to be detected and swiftly shut down.

Thanks to intelligence from the Cheetham Hill Neighbourhood Team (who remain in the area with the Vulcan team and conduct daily patrols in the community), Operation Vulcan were able to execute these warrants just days after witnessing customers walking down Bury New Road with bags of fake goods.

Detective Sergeant Matt Donnelly, one of Operation Vulcan’s specialist officers, said: “These results today demonstrate just how important it is that Operation Vulcan remain in the area. The criminals operating here are so brazen, the minute they think they spot an opening, they’re back up and running as though it’s business as usual. We’re here to show them that this isn’t the case, and we will not stop until these illegitimate shops are eradicated and those responsible are locked up.

“I hope this is a warning that no matter how many times you try to reopen, we will continue to seize your belongings and profits, making sure none of this money can make its way back into the criminal market.

Councillor Luthfur Rahman, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council said: "Over the past 12 months we have achieved a great deal through Operation Vulcan. Through our partnership with GMP gangs have been run out of Cheetham Hill and people have been allowed to feel safe in their own neighbourhoods.

"But the work will go on. We know these gangs are tenacious and that criminals will always find ways to circumvent the law. The Council's Trading Standards will remain vigilant throughout the Christmas period to make sure that dangerous or harmful goods do not make their way in the hands of the public."