Wanted fugitives ‘may be hiding on your street’ warns a Manchester police chief, after more than 100 sought-after criminals were arrested in Manchester in the past two days.
Communities across Greater Manchester are being urged to work with the police to bring suspected criminals out of hiding as they launch Operation Dawn Thunder, arresting 108 wanted criminals so far.
Chief Superintendent John O’Hare released the message to not only reminding people to remain vigilant – but also to warn against the consequences of harbouring offenders.
He said: “If you are caught harbouring an offender, you risk going to prison yourself, so ask yourself: is it worth going to jail for someone else?”
“I would ask communities across Greater Manchester to work with us and help us bring suspected criminals out of hiding and make our streets safer places to live.”
“Any information you can provide to us, and you don’t have to give your name, could be the missing link to finding wanted criminals.
“If you do know of someone who is on the run then do the right thing and call.”
This comes after two days of co-ordinated strikes where police have carried out raids on known fugitive hide-outs.
As Gold Commander for the operation, O’Hare warns the public that fugitives pose a serious risk to our communities.
He claims they ‘have shown no remorse for their crimes by surrendering to police.’
“When they are on the run and in hiding they often have to resort to further criminality such as theft and burglary just to get their hands on cash.”
In the meantime, officers are continuing to develop intelligence regarding the whereabouts of outstanding persons of interest.
O’Hare issued a serious warning to those still lying low.
“If you don’t hand yourself in we will be knocking down your front door,” said Chief Superintendent O’Hare.
Anyone with information should call the police on 101, the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or provide information here.
