Funding For Operation To Tackle Gang Crime

An innovative police operation to tackle gang crime in Manchester has been given new funding of £50,000 and was praised for its success in fighting gang-related activity today by Home Secretary Jacqui Smith during a visit to the city.

On its first anniversary Greater Manchester Police figures show that Operation Cougar has delivered a major reduction in gang-related shootings since February 2008.

This has been delivered through strong enforcement activity, with police "spotters" being deployed on the streets to quickly identify mounting tensions and to bring in additional officers to respond. Alongside this, police have increased the use of CCTV, built close relationships with local schools and community groups, and used intelligence to identify likely locations for hiding and storing firearms. Additionally, those wanting to leave gangs are provided with strong support from a range of partners to do so.

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said: "Gangs of young people cause fear in our communities and members are often involved in criminal activities which can lead to serious violence.

"The progress by Greater Manchester Police and its partners, including the council have shown that when efforts are targeted, we can make a difference. The Tackling Gangs Action Programme which I set up last year demonstrated that this focused approach works and we are continuing this with our programme of action to tackle knife crime."

Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police Peter Fahy also said: "Operation Cougar is an excellent example of what can be achieved when people work together. Local authorities, the media, the Home Office and - crucially - the communities we serve in the areas most affected by the blight of gun crime have all joined with us to make a stand against its devastating effects.

"I have no doubt at all that lives have been saved as a result of this ground-breaking operation. There are young people walking the streets of Manchester today who would otherwise be in an early grave. There are parents who have not had to endure the heartbreaking ordeal of grieving for their children."

He added: "Robust policing and enforcement has played a big part in this operation - including the use of stop and search - but it has all been done with the support of the local community. It is right that we celebrate this success, as we all share in it. But we aren't complacent. We recognise that this journey is far from over and there is much work to do to build on the success of Cougar and ensure its momentum is not lost."

(JM/CD)