Operation Rimini returns to Stockport to tackle ASB and retail crime in run up to Christmas

Operation Rimini is GMP Stockport’s designated day of action, which takes place each month, focussed on tackling retail-related crime and ASB in Stockport town centre, as part of a wider ongoing initiative. 

Neighbourhood officers were out in force in the town centre on Friday 29 November, which coincided with Black Friday, as shoppers were out in droves to take advantage of discounted goods in the run up to Christmas. 

A number of crime prevention stalls were set-up in and around the Merseyway Shopping Centre with a highlight on fraud awareness. Officers, alongside partners, were on hand to offer advice to members of the public about ways to keep safe from scammers. 

There was also a pop-up stall where officers gave out general crime prevention advice and signed people up to Bee in the Loop - our free email alert system and direct line to your local Neighbourhood Policing Team. You can sign-up to Bee in the Loop via: https://beeintheloop.co.uk

Superintendent Richard Arthern answered questions from Joe McGrath on BBC Radio Manchester in a live broadcast in which he talked about the robust action taking place against crime in Stockport.

Meanwhile, our Police Cadets visited some retailers to check that knives were not being sold to any under-18s as they conducted 11 test purchases at several locations. None of the test-purchases were successful and all the stores passed, which demonstrates that our retailers are challenging where appropriate. 

Furthermore, Stockport Metropolitan Borough Council and GMP completed a joint operation checking taxi licensing at the train station following complaints received from local taxi firms. 

Following the day of action, officers made three arrests and carried out eight stop searches. Aside from tackling crime, it was great to be visible in the community and speak to the people who live, work and come to visit Stockport. 

Sergeant Jason Holmwood, of GMP's Stockport Central Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We have been out in Stockport Town Centre today as part of Operation Rimini to ensure we are visible in our communities and tackling the issues that matter to them the most. 

“And that doesn't stop today when Operation Rimini is over - this is an ongoing operation which shows our commitment to stopping crime.  

“There have been huge changes in Stockport as it has undergone a massive regeneration, and we need to stay ahead of that curve and make sure we are challenging people who are coming here to cause anti-social behaviour. 

“We will not tolerate this kind of behaviour, and we will challenge people and make arrests where appropriate. We are here to fight crime and keep people safe. 

“Officers undertook a great deal of work during the day – from making arrests to conducting stop and searches and offering fraud awareness advice with shoppers. 

“By working closely with partners, the local neighbourhood policing teams continue to make Stockport a safer place for people to live, work and visit. 

“You can report a crime to us by calling 101, or contact Crimestoppers, anonymously on 0800 555 111. Dial 999 in an emergency. To sign up for our free neighbourhood alert scheme, Bee in the Loop, visit www.beeintheloop.co.uk.”