Police crackdown on alcohol-fuelled crime

Date published: 23 February 2010

The police, Trading Standards, Tameside Council and licensed premises have been working together as part of Operation Portcullis to ensure Tameside continues to be a safe place to enjoy a night out.

On Friday 19 February the Forcewide day of action began with warrants being executed across the division and 23 arrests as officers hunted down criminals responsible for alcohol-fuelled violent assaults and those who have jumped bail and are on the run.

In addition to the arrests, throughout today officers were working with the licensing trade to highlight the role it plays in encouraging responsible drinking and ensuring premises are adhering to licensing agreements.

In the evening Trading Standards visited 15 on-licensed and 30 off-licensed premises to ensure they were adhering to the conditions of their licence.

Officers also met with revelers as they entered Stalybridge town centre to give out personal safety advice and talk to people about any concerns they may have.

Chief Inspector Ged O’Connor said: “We are fortunate to a vibrant nighttime economy in Tameside and people are attracted to its many bars, clubs and restaurants.

“We want people to visit and enjoy themselves, but at the same time ensure they do not come to any harm.

“We have also been promoting the Think Safe, Drink Safe slogan as a reminder that alcohol can impair decision making and, in certain circumstances, this can compromise people’s judgement and safety.

“People should avoid drinking to excess, stay with groups of friends and always arrange how to get home safely by avoiding traveling alone and using a licensed taxi or designating a group member as a driver.

“It is also a reminder to revelers that although we want people to be able to enjoy themselves we will not tolerate bad behaviour and will act robustly if necessary.

“People are also reminded that they need to take care when returning home from a night out. People should avoid cooking when they return home as the Fire Service are often called to house fires started in the kitchen where people have forgotten or fallen asleep while cooking a late-night meal.”

People can help police by providing information on crime and criminal activity either by calling them directly on 0161 872 5050 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Crimestoppers is an independent charity that will not want your name, just your information. Your call will not be traced or recorded and you do not have to go to court or give a statement.