113 arrested as new Police operation sets out to make Manchester’s nightlife a safer place for all

Date published: 19 February 2010

Greater Manchester Police is gearing up to make tonight a night to remember for revellers across the city.

Today the force has launched Operation Portcullis, which aims to make Manchester even safer for the thousands of people who come to the city for a night out.

Operation Portcullis follows on from the success of last year’s Operation Admiral and Operation Admiral II which netted hundreds of offenders.

Earlier on today, suspects wanted for violent offences have been given a wake-up call they won't forget.

Raids have been carried out this morning, Friday 19 February 2010, on every division within the Force area, as Greater Manchester Police tracks down criminals suspected of drink-fuelled violence.

Warrants are being executed on every division within the Force area as officers hunt down criminals responsible for alcohol-fuelled violent assaults and those who have jumped bail and are on the run.

So far 113 people have been arrested as part of the operation.

Officers are also using Operation Portcullis to appeal for people to call police if they suspect anyone living near them is committing offences of any kind.

Superintendent Chris Ullah said: “There may be someone you know or who lives near you and you ask yourself: What are the police doing about them?

“Now’s the time to tell us who they are and we’ll do the rest.

“We’ve set up a dedicated telephone number today and all calls will be treated in confidence. You don’t have to leave your name. Just call us on 0161 856 2019.”

In addition to the arrests, throughout today GMP will be working with the licensing trade to highlight the role they play in encouraging responsible drinking and ensuring their premises are adhering to licensing agreements.

Safety arches will be used in Manchester city centre throughout the night to put a stop to people carrying weapons on nights out and drugs dogs will be detecting people carrying illegal substances.

Operation Portcullis is an initiative which involves a range of agencies, such as Manchester City Council, Greater Manchester Public Health Network and British Transport Police.

Greater Manchester Police Assistant Chief Constable Terry Sweeney said: "Today we have sent out a powerful message to people who are suspected in getting involved in nasty attacks.

"All too frequently, alcohol is a major cause of aggression and results in innocent people being subjected to violent and unprovoked assaults.

"Up to 100,000 people visit Manchester each weekend for nights out. The city was recently awarded a purple flag for safety, so we know it is a safe city. We want to keep it that way.

"Not only are we removing trouble-makers from the streets, but we’re also encouraging people to look after themselves by pacing their drinks, staying with their friends, and using safe transport. My message is simple; I don't want to see anyone spoiling everybody else’s fun by being drunk and causing trouble. If you do see trouble, walk away.

"Today, a significant number of people will be arrested. This is just the start of an ongoing process that will see Greater Manchester Police continually target those responsible for violent crime until the message sinks in."

The operation is being supported by Greater Manchester Police's Think Safe, Drink Safe campaign to encourage sensible drinking.

People are encouraged to go out and have fun, but to keep safe.

Councillor Jim Battle, deputy leader of Manchester City Council, said: "Anyone who socialises in Manchester knows it's a safe place for a night out.

"This is demonstrated by the fact that we're the first city in the north to be awarded the prestigious purple flag for safety.

"We're really pleased to be working with the Police in this operation to help ensure that people feel even safer. This operation sends out a really strong message to that tiny minority of people who are bent on trouble and it is simply this: don't bother."