Operation Portcullis "A Success" says Assistant Chief Constable

Reporter: James Trueman
Date online: 19 February 2010

Assistant Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police Terry Sweeney has hailed Operation Portcullis "a success".

After Operation Portcullis was launched this morning, with the aim of striking at those who are responsible for alcohol-fuelled violent assaults and those who have jumped bail and are on the run, over 150 arrests have been made as part of the operation, with South Manchester and Salford being the areas with the largest number of arrests.

Along with the significant number of arrests this morning, the operation will continue into the night, with 'Safety Arches' being set up around Manchester city centre to put a stop to people carrying weapons on nights out and drugs dogs will be detecting people carrying illegal substances. This could see the figure hit over 200 arrests for the day, which could demonstrate the importance of such an operation in combating the problems of alcohol-fuelled violence and trouble-making in Manchester city centre.

Later today, officers are working with the licensing trade to highlight the role they play in encouraging responsible drinking and 'Safety Arches' will be used in Manchester city centre throughout the night.

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

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

Anyone concerned about criminal activity in their neighbourhood should call 0161 856 2019 today.