Crimestoppers lives up to its name

ANONYMOUS callers helped police to make 500 arrests in Greater Manchester last year.

A total of more than £2 million of drugs was seized as a result of Crimestoppers information.

Twelve firearms were also recovered, along with goods, cash and vehicles to the value of £377,000.

Crimestoppers operates across the UK and gives people the chance to provide information about those involved in, or suspected of being involved in, criminal activity without revealing their identity.

Greater Manchester Chief Constable Peter Fahy said: “I have always been a big supporter of Crimestoppers and these results show why.

“There are a lot of people out there fed up with others making money from crime and causing misery to victims. Crimestoppers allows them to do something about it.

“Greater Manchester Police will follow up the information supplied and take robust action as this number of arrests demonstrates.

“We need more local people to take this stand against crime and give us the information we need to hold criminals to account.”

Gary Murray, Crimestoppers regional manager, added: “This is another excellent year for Greater Manchester Crimestoppers with the statistics highlighting how effective Crimestoppers is in reducing crime and improving community safety and confidence.

“I would like to thank all the Crimestoppers volunteers, and the members of the public who call Crimestoppers anonymously, for their contribution to our success.”

Crimestoppers is the only national charity aimed at detecting crime and arresting criminals.

It is supported by more than 500 volunteers and works closely with the police, media, businesses and other agencies including HM Customs and Trading Standards.

If you or someone you know has information concerning crime in your neighbourhood, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555 111 or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org