Latest round of results for Stockport town centre operation sees more arrests, charges, and traffic stops

The ever-present Operation Rimini in Stockport produced a new round of positive results following another crime-busting day of action.

Rimini is a neighbourhoods-led operation in Stockport Town Centre, and which focuses on issues that the public and business community want their local officers to deal with: anti-social behaviour, shoplifting, drug use, and more.

The days of action have resulted in dozens of arrests and more than a hundred charges over the last year, with officers working closely with partners to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the local area.

This includes working with local security, charities, housing agencies and more to establish the best outcome for each situation they encounter.

Yesterday’s (22 January 2025) results saw two arrests of men, both on suspicion of theft, with one also on suspicion of failing to appear at court.

Eleven stop-searches were carried out, with four positive outcomes, which saw the recovery of cannabis, tramadol and suspected stolen property. Four out of court disposals / community resolutions were subsequently processed.

While much of the work includes proactive patrolling among shoppers and crowds in the town centre, other work included targeting vehicle offences. The day saw thirteen traffic offence reports submitted for a range of offences, including failing to comply with a no-entry sign and causing an obstruction of the highway.

With a heavy footfall in the centre, traffic operations ensure that drivers are following the rules and keeping visitors and themselves safe.

Officers from the local neighbourhood team additionally stopped and spoke to people to let them know what action they were taking, in addition to building further intelligence by asking them exactly what they wanted and issues they had personally experienced.

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Inspector Jason Holmwood, from GMP’s Stockport district, said: “Op Rimini has become a regular feature of Stockport Town Centre and I am glad that the latest round of results saw arrests, charges, traffic checks, and stop-searches. That is exactly what the public want us to do and our team are more than happy to deliver.

“Our work with partners has ensured a close relationship with those in the area who have issues, such as local businesses. By closely linking in them, we have been able to jointly build intelligence on a range of different types of criminality, while responding quickly to incidents through our inter-connected radio network.

“Ultimately, we are determined to provide the best possible service to people in Stockport, and we would urge anyone with any issues to get in touch with your local policing team.”