Licensees praised for helping cut crime
Police in Manchester have hailed an operation to reduce the number of thefts in city centre pubs, bars and clubs.
Police say crime was cut by 28 per cent after undercover officers patrolled licensed premises.
Operation Crackling was launched in July to target and deter offenders who prey on unsuspecting victims by stealing unattended items such as mobile phones, coats and bags.
Working alongside licensees, officers from the City Safe unit produced a photo album of known offenders who have been responsible for stealing from members of the public in licensed premises.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank local licensees for working with us to drive down theft Inspector Steve Greenacre, head of GMP's City Safe unit.
These photographs were shown to members of Manchester's Pub and Club Network to enable them to monitor who enters their pub, bar or club.
Licensees also displayed City Safe posters, bearing the message 'Don't become a target for thieves - look after your property'.
Inspector Steve Greenacre, head of GMP's City Safe unit, said: "This latest initiative has proved to be a huge success, cutting thefts in licensed premises across the city centre by almost a third.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank local licensees for working with us to drive down theft and remind visitors to Manchester's pubs and clubs to take care of their property and never leave it unattended.
"The city is a fantastic place to enjoy a safe night out, so make sure you don't become a victim of crime by leaving your valuables vulnerable to thieves".
