CCTV enquiries lead to the arrest of suspected burglar and wanted man on a bus in Manchester

Detectives in GMP’s Manchester central neighbourhood crime team were made aware of three reports of burglaries in the Ardwick area.

After conducting a number of CCTV enquiries, detectives identified a potential suspect.

At the same time detectives were continuing their CCTV enquiries, an officer who was conducting further CCTV enquiries at the time in the Ardwick area saw a woman matching the CCTV description getting onto the bus with a man.

The officer followed the pair onto the bus, whilst requesting more patrols to the area he stopped the bus and a 55-year-old woman was swiftly arrested on suspicion of burglary yesterday (23 July 2024).  She currently remains in custody for questioning.

A man, aged 48, who was wanted for assault was also arrested.

Detective Inspector Natalie McDonald, said: “Thanks to a great team effort, we were able to make these arrests.

“Within a very short space of time after we were made aware of the reports of burglary, we had identified a potential suspect through CCTV enquiries, which enabled us to communicate to colleagues on the ground who were able to make the arrest.

“After the arrests, we continued to investigate and have since located a car which we believe was stolen and have since returned this back to the victim.

“I hope this arrest reassures the people of Greater Manchester that we take all reports of this burglary extremely seriously and are committed to ensuring our streets are safe.

Each area in Greater Manchester is committed to attending every burglary report we receive to drive down this appalling and ruinous crime as part of #OpCastle.

For more advice and information on burglaries and how to keep your home and belongings safe, visit: Protecting your home from crime | Crime prevention | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)

Anyone with information should contact police on 0161 856 2203. Alternatively, details can be passed via our LiveChat function at www.gmp.police.uk or via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Follow our crime prevention advice to keep your property safe:

Keep your property visible - lower fences at the front around one-metre high are preferable to high fences as they allow for a clear view over the top and don’t provide cover for anyone wishing to hide. At the rear and sides, taller fencing is recommended to prevent easy access. Trellis, thorny plants, or a suitable anti-climb topping such as plastic spikes make it difficult for anyone climbing over a fence or gate.

Burglar alarms - consider an accredited burglar alarm system with audible alarm boxes mounted high at the front and rear of your home. 

External building lighting - lighting is a good deterrent and is recommended at doors as it makes it safer for you when coming and going after dark.  

Lighting inside your house - Use an automatic plugin time switch to operate a lamp or light at pre-set times when you’re away to make it look like someone is in the house which can deter opportunistic burglars from entering.