Police halt crime spree with 20 arrests

DAMAGE at Jo Ferns’ salon, Lydgate

A hair salon owner whose business was attacked by burglars has praised police for stemming a series of break-ins across Saddleworth villages.

Jo Ferns, who has a business in Lydgate, was speaking after police announced around 20 arrests in connection with raids on commercial properties. Jo organised a meeting attended by more than 100 worried business owners and police.

The news of the success was revealed by PC Jon Marsden in a report to Saddleworth and Lees District Executive.

There were almost 30 linked offences on commercial premises across Oldham between last November and February - double the number last year.

The attacks were in Greenfield, Uppermill, Lydgate Saddleworth West, Lees, Dobcross and Delph, mainly overnight at licensed or retail premises. Since early last month there have only been a handful of new offences.

PC Marsden said: “Over the last few weeks the rate has dropped significantly to a normal level. We have made people aware of what was happening and both individuals and businesses were more vigilant. “We have made a number of significant arrests over the last three weeks. Around 20 people have been arrested so far and we think we have got the key players.”