Operation Avro: GMP Trafford crackdown on crime returns

Operation Avro is an operation which comes to a different district of Greater Manchester once a month with the aim of tackling the things which matter most to communities.

On August 15, in the early hours, police and their partners arrived at properties for raids in areas from Partington and Stretford in the north to Sale and Timperley in the south.

They arrested more than 20 people for a range of offences and seized items such as £20,000 in cash and two dangerous dogs, as well as drugs and weapons.

The day turned to different activities including a traffic operation in which there were more than 600 traffic offences, almost all of them for speeding and more than half of them in one location, which was not named by GMP Trafford. Also there more than 60 fines for other offences on the Metrolink.

Additionally there were patrols where anti-social behaviour is a problem, such as at Altrincham Interchange, and stalls where residents received advice on crime, such as at the Trafford Centre.

Chief Superintendent Colette Rose, a Loreto Grammar alumna and the commander of GMP Trafford, said: "Our action saw significant results which will improve the lives of people living in Trafford District. By undertaking warrants and conducting proactive policing, our officers took a number of weapons, drugs, dangerous dogs and proceeds of crime off the streets. 

"Our traffic operation saw impressive returns thanks to partnership working with Trafford Council, the National Crime Agency and the Trafford Community Safety Unit.

"A lot of work was undertaken to engage with people in our communities. Officers and PCSOs were out on patrol speaking to people and listening to their concerns.

"Thanks to everyone who played their part in helping GMP to achieve such positive results."

This article was written by Jack Tooth. To contact him, email jack.tooth@newsquest.co.uk or follow @JTRTooth on Twitter.