Heywood neighbourhood team secure closure orders on properties as they tackle ASB and protect vulnerable people
Officers in Heywood have secured three closure orders on properties to combat criminal activities and protect vulnerable people, including cases of 'cuckooing' where homes are exploited for drug-related activities. The team is working with local partners to provide support and has made arrests for various offences.
Heywood Police Secure Three Closure Orders in Crackdown on Criminality
Heywood officers have obtained three closure orders on local properties in the past week as part of ongoing efforts to combat crime and protect vulnerable residents.
Two partial orders restrict access to premises, allowing only tenants and support staff to enter. These orders include trigger plans to respond to any reported criminal activity. A third property received a full closure order and has been boarded up, remaining vacant until further notice.
The orders were secured with support from Greater Manchester Police’s legal services team.
The action forms part of the Heywood neighbourhood team’s broader strategy to reduce anti-social behaviour and safeguard vulnerable individuals. Officers are collaborating with local partners including RBH, Guinness Partnership, and the council’s adult care services to ensure affected residents receive appropriate support.
Police have been specifically addressing reports of ‘cuckooing’ in the area, where criminals exploit vulnerable people by taking over their homes for illegal activities. This often involves forcing victims to store drugs through intimidation and coercion.
In recent months, officers have secured multiple orders and warrants beyond this week’s actions. Enhanced patrols, regular community engagement, and close partnership working have resulted in arrests, charges, and convictions for offences including drug crimes, robberies, and thefts.
Inspector Graham Cooke of GMP’s Neighbourhood Policing Team stated: “We are aware that some vulnerable people in our community are targeted by criminals in what is often known as ‘cuckooing’ - and which has meant their homes have been taken over for drug-related activities. We will never tolerate this disgusting exploitation and continue to work hard with all our local partners to safeguard those who we identify as most at risk.”
He added that officers will pursue additional closure orders in coming weeks and continue targeting offenders harming local communities.
Residents with information about potential criminal activity or suspicious behaviour can contact police via 101 or the Live Chat service at gmp.police.uk. Anonymous reports can be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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