Greater Manchester Police steps up security operation ahead of Conservative Party conference

Greater Manchester Police is intensifying its security preparations ahead of the Conservative Party Conference taking place in Manchester later this year.

Planning for the event, which runs from Sunday 5 October to Wednesday 8 October at the Manchester Central Convention Complex, has been taking place for the past year.

Officers from Project Servator were out and about in the city centre on Friday around St Peter's Square, Market Street, Piccadilly Gardens and Manchester Victoria.

One suspect was arrested near Victoria on recall to prison, while there were several stop-searches resulting in the seizure of drugs and drugs paraphernalia.

Project Servator is a well-established policing tactic aimed at disrupting a range of criminal activity, including terrorism.

The approach involves highly visible and unpredictable patrols by specially trained officers who are skilled in identifying suspicious behaviour.

Chief Superintendent John-Paul Ruffle, who is overseeing the GMP security operation for the conference, said: “Manchester is proud to host major national events and ensuring the safety of our residents, visitors, and delegates is our highest priority.

“In the lead-up to and throughout the conference, the public will notice an increased presence of uniformed officers, as well as plain-clothes and armed officers in the city centre and transport hubs.

"This is no cause for concern, it’s all part of our commitment to keeping people safe.

“GMP is working closely with Manchester City Council, British Transport Police, and other partners to ensure a safe and successful event. The force thanks the public for their co-operation and continued support.

“Officers will be engaging with the public and local businesses, encouraging vigilance and reporting of anything unusual.

"Project Servator aims to disrupt a range of criminal activity, including terrorism, while providing a reassuring presence for the public.

"Our officers are experienced and specially trained to spot the tell-tale signs that someone is planning or preparing to commit an act of crime.

“If you encounter a deployment, please don’t be alarmed, our officers are there to keep you safe.

“Feel free to speak with them—they’ll be happy to explain what they’re doing and how you can help.”

How You Can Help

Everyone has a role to play in keeping Manchester safe:

• Report anything that doesn’t feel right to a police officer or member of staff
• Call 101 for non-emergencies or 999 in an emergency
• Visit www.gov.uk/ACT for guidance on spotting suspicious activity and reporting it confidentially