Police to use drones to track criminals

GMP says drones could be used to take photographs of offenders - and even follow them back to their home address

Officers from Greater Manchester Police are being trained to use drones to help tackle crime and anti-social behaviour in our region.

The move was announced at a meeting between police and community leaders in Middleton this week.

It follows complaints of off-road bikes being driven dangerously on Bowlee Playing Fields near Middleton - endangering children and dog-walkers.

The Force says drones could be used to take photographs of offenders - and even follow them back to their home address.

Officers say it's part of measures to use new technology to aid frontline policing - and keep residents safe.

The move has the backing of Middleton Township and ward Councillor Phil Burke.

Recently, drones were used by Lancashire Fire and Rescue to monitor the damage on Winter Hill after this year's moor fires.

The Chronicle utilised a drone to record dramatic footage of the summer fires across Saddleworth Moor.

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