Greater Manchester Police warn looters: 'It is only a matter of time before we catch you'

By Karen Regn and Tom Midlane

New photographs and video of rioters and looters were released today as Greater Manchester Police continue to ask members of the public for help in identifying suspects.

They warn looters that it is only a matter of time before those wanted in connection with the riots see their day in court.

A video of looting at the Diesel shop on King Street shows youths ramming the display glass with detached sign posts.  Looters then reach in for belts, bags, and clothing before making further attempts to widen the holes by kicking the glass or pulling it apart with their hands.  One man, taking a running start, even hurls a bicycle while a child stands dangerously close.   

The latest in an ongoing slideshow of criminality, the Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have posted a new reel of photos on Flickr, which include images of young men eating and drinking as they leave a looted Tescos. 

Among others exiting the shop are a blonde woman in a white SuperDry hoodie and black trousers and a man wearing jeans, white trainers, and a green and yellow scarf wrapped around his face.  Another woman with red hair and a pink shirt, carrying what seems to be an oversized hula hoop down the street. 

All the images of those wanted in connection with the disorder can be seen here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/gmpwanted/sets/72157627501344798/

The total number of arrests by the GMP has risen to 302, and Manchester Magistrates’ Court are still struggling with the enormous influx of cases.

Thanks to campaigns such as “Shop a looter” and the regular release of images and footage on Flickr, Greater Manchester Police are raiding the flats of those responsible for the destruction.

Officers from the Tactical Aid Unit executed a warrant and raided a flat on Amersham Street, Salford, on Wednesday August 24 after receiving information from someone who recognised the images of suspected looters on the Flickr website.  

A 20-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and looted clothing was also recovered from the flat.

Detective Chief Inspector Bob Tonge, who is leading the investigation, said: "The investigation is continuing and I would urge the community to continue to look at images featured in the local press, our Flickr website and GMP's website. If you recognise anyone from these images, please contact us as soon as possible.

"If you recognise yourself, I would urge you to hand yourself in as it is only a matter of time before we catch up with you."

Anyone with information can phone police on 0161 856 2031, the appeal line 0800 092 0410 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

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Charity auction to acknowledge clean-up following Manchester riots and looting  

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