Police increase cash-van security

Greater Manchester Police are stepping up their fight against armed raiders who target bank and cash-in-transit robberies in the run up to Christmas.

Operation Vanguard will see armed police escorting high-risk security vehicles on cash deliveries, overt and covert CCTV monitoring and shadowing deliveries by the police helicopter.

Det Chief Insp Patrick McKelvey said: “It is a common misconception that armed robberies are a victimless crime.

“During the past month we have seen a 48 per cent reduction in robberies and arrested 19 offenders.

“I am determined that we will maintain the momentum into the New Year.

“To ensure this, we are stepping up our policing operations in the run-up to the festive period to crackdown on these offenders.”

Mr McKelvey appealed for the public to show their support.

“Please help us stop the violence and report any information either directly to us on 0161-872 50 50 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111,” he added.