Operation Vulcan’s Crime Crackdown Expands from Cheetham Hill to Derker

Greater Manchester Police’s Operation Vulcan team has arrested over 1,000 people and seized more than 1,000 tonnes of counterfeit goods since launching their first crackdown in Cheetham Hill in November 2022. The specialist unit’s success in transforming one of Manchester’s most crime-ridden areas has now led them to Derker, Oldham, where they made 30 arrests and seized 30 vehicles in their first month.

The dedicated officers embed themselves in communities to tackle root causes of crime while building resilience against future criminal activity. In Cheetham Hill, their relentless campaign reduced violent crime by almost 70% and achieved a 100% reduction in stalking and harassment offences. A major investigation into an alleged drug dealing and money laundering operation resulted in 12 people being charged and over £3 million worth of drugs seized.

Superintendent Jen Kelly, who leads Operation Vulcan, said the community remains at the heart of their operations. “We work with them to show the criminals they are not welcome, and the team will work tirelessly to pursue offenders, safeguard victims, and improve the overall look and feel of the area,” she explained. The team’s approach has earned national and international recognition for their partnership model that brings together experts from various fields.

Following their Cheetham Hill success, where no counterfeit shops have reopened, the team has expanded their operations to Piccadilly Gardens and now Derker. In Piccadilly Gardens, their day-and-night patrols helped secure external investment and led to environmental changes with Manchester City Council. A covert investigation there dismantled an entire drugs line, with offenders receiving jail sentences totaling over 100 years.

---

Source: Read original article