Fourteen arrests made following various incidents of criminal damage at businesses in Greater Manchester
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We are continuing to investigate 21 reports of criminal damage in Manchester, Bolton, Trafford, Stockport and Bury, where windows of businesses have been smashed and red paint thrown over the buildings. These incidents are within the timeframe of 9 October 2023 to 1 July 2024. The damage caused to these businesses is estimated to value hundreds of thousands of pounds.
We have made significant progress in these investigations and have arrested 14 people in connection to the reports in total so far. Of these individuals, eight have been charged, five remain on police bail whilst enquiries continue and one is in our custody for interview.
The latest arrest comes today (Thursday 4 July 2024) where a 29-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage relating to 11 incidents across Greater Manchester.
A portal for the public to submit CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage of these incidents which may help our investigations has been opened here.
We are working closely with the impacted businesses and local authorities to provide support to victims, witnesses, and members of staff; crime prevention advice; reassurance and ensure those responsible are identified.
Detective Inspector Jill Billington leading the investigations said, “These incidents have undoubtedly caused significant disruption to these businesses, but even more so to members of the public who work there. Many are now in fear of further criminality taking place.
“It is also not just the businesses and employees that are impacted, but the wider community including people who need to access the services, such as vulnerable people who need to attend in person. We want everyone to feel safe in our towns and cities.
“We recognise that there will be people who wish to participate in peaceful and organised protest. However, these incidents of damage have crossed the line into criminality. Such behaviour won’t be tolerated, and we will take action.”