Burglaries in Wigan reduce by two-thirds

Burglaries in Wigan has seen a huge reduction since the start of this year, cutting down by more than two-thirds in some areas.

In the Wigan West District - particularly Aspull, Standish and Shevington - there has been a 69% drop in cases with 105 in January to 33 in April.

Operation Stara has seen focused patrols in hotspot areas for this sort of crime with extra patrols by specialist officers and neighbourhood officers in uniform and plain clothes.

This has led to 11 arrests as part of the Operation.

There was also a focused effort on the victims of burglaries. GMP Neighbourhood PCSOs worked in partnership with the local authority to revisit the victims as well as other residents in the vicinity, giving out security packs.

These contained light timers and support literature from the local authority and other agencies.

Superintendent Mark Kenny from the Wigan district said:

"Since the inception of Operation Stara at the start of 2021, a number of proactive operations have been conducted by officers in uniform and plain clothes."

"This was an intelligence-led operation, which began following a rise in burglaries on empty homes or those occupied by elderly victims during the late afternoon or early evening hours from November 2020 to January 2021.

"Smashed rear windows and doors were frequent means of entry and jewellery was often stolen.

"Burglary has a massive impact on the victim, their family and the wider community and we are committed to bringing those responsible to justice and preventing further offences.

"The investigation team are continuing with their enquiries and aim to bring those responsible to justice and I would ask the public to contact us if they are aware of where stolen property is being taken or who is responsible."

Top tips to prevent being burgled

• Put your burglar alarm on at night-time and when you go out

• Lock all windows and doors

• Use a timer to switch lights on to give the impression someone is at home

• Don’t leave valuables on show

• Make valuable items traceable. Photograph your property and register it free of charge at www.immobilise.com

• Keep an eye out in your neighbourhood, and report anything suspicious to police

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