Police operation in Brinnington addresses crime and community concerns
Officers have seized £17,000 in suspected illicit cash, two kilograms of heroin worth £200,000, thousands of pounds worth of cannabis, and twelve bladed articles
A major policing operation is underway in Stockport as officers intensify efforts to tackle crime and address residents' concerns.
Launched on 10th November, the operation in Brinnington, brings together specialist teams from across the force to disrupt illegal activity, arrest offenders, and target areas highlighted by public feedback.
In the past fortnight, police have made 15 arrests for offences, including possession with intent to supply, dangerous driving, and weapons offences.
Seizures have included approximately £17,000 in suspected illicit cash, two kilograms of heroin worth £200,000, thousands of pounds worth of cannabis, and twelve bladed articles.
Twelve vehicles, including two e-bikes, have also been confiscated.
Specialist teams in action
The operation, running until the end of November, involves neighbourhood policing teams, traffic units monitoring illegal and unsafe driving, and knife crime patrols in hotspot areas.
GMP's drone unit and Operation Vulcan are also supporting efforts, using advanced technology and problem-solving methods to enhance crime prevention and response.
Chief Inspector Clare Ryle from GMP’s Stockport Neighbourhood Team said the action represents the core mission of neighbourhood police work: “Acting decisively on what communities want to disrupt criminality, gather intelligence, and punish those who break the law.
"While the intensification runs until the end of the month, it is by no means an end to the action," Ryle said. "The work has seen multiple arrests, kilos of dangerous drugs seized, and deadly weapons taken off the streets."
She added that the operation is also laying a foundation for longer-term safety in Brinnington: “Working closely with partners to ensure long-term sustainable solutions can help provide strong foundations for Brinnington for years to come.”
Community-led efforts
The police operation follows a recent community survey in Brinnington, which revealed the areas residents wanted officers to focus on.
Following this, neighbourhood tasking teams have been deployed to patrol local hotspots and respond to intelligence while problem areas are being tackled with proactive policing.
Neighbourhood officers are also working closely with partners and local residents to address key concerns and maintain safer streets.
Cllr Dan Oliver, Cabinet Member for Public Protection at Stockport Council, praised the work, saying, "The action taken so far shows the real difference proactive policing and enforcement make in our communities.
“We know how much people value safe, welcoming neighbourhoods and feeling proud of where they live. The strength of community spirit in Brinnington cannot be understated and by bringing services together and working closely with local people, we are responding to issues more effectively and helping our communities to thrive.”
The operation reflects Greater Manchester Police's ongoing commitment to improving neighbourhood policing. Since Chief Constable Sir Stephen Watson took charge in May 2021, GMP has reported significant reductions in crime, including a quarter reduction in vehicle offences and 500 fewer burglary victims each month. Arrests have also doubled to over 70,000 annually.
The Brinnington operation will continue until the end of November, with further actions planned based on community feedback.