Oldham neighbourhood police make 23 arrests as Derker crime crackdown continues

GMP Op Vulcan

Greater Manchester Police said local officers are continuing targeted activity alongside the long running Operation Vulcan partnership, which was launched in Derker just over a year ago to address serious and organised crime.

Since its launch, Operation Vulcan has led to more than 250 arrests, the recovery of large quantities of drugs, the seizure of more than 200 vehicles and the removal of weapons from the streets.

Police said recent activity by neighbourhood teams has resulted in 23 arrests for offences including drug dealing, possession of offensive weapons and shoplifting. Charges and further orders have been secured following these arrests.

Officers have also shut down three cannabis farms since January, recovering more than 200 plants. A further 30 vehicles have been seized for offences including having no insurance and dangerous driving.

During patrols, officers carried out 95 stop searches involving vehicles and individuals as part of proactive and responsive policing.

Alongside enforcement, officers have continued community engagement work in the area. This has included drop in sessions with residents, visits to schools and businesses, and ongoing work with the local authority and partners.

Sergeant Gabriella Evans from GMP Oldham said the partnership approach remains central to the work being carried out.

She said, “The Vulcan partnership is continuing to flourish within the Derker area and we are intent on helping those within the area as we move into the hold phase of the Clear Hold Build strategy.

“Our local neighbourhood team has conducted so much good work this year and is something that we will continue to do so in the weeks and months to come. From proactive days of action to regular hotspot patrols and vital community engagement, our teams will continue to tackle all forms of criminality.

“I would urge anyone within the community with any issues to get in touch with us, so we can help in any way we can.”