Operation AVRO returned to Rochdale with Early Morning Arrests, Warrants and High-Visibility Patrols

Friday, 21 March 2025 15:45

By David Murphy

Roch Valley Radio joined officers from Greater Manchester Police on Thursday 20 March as a major day of action rolled back into Rochdale as part of the monthly Operation AVRO.

The borough-wide crackdown saw police teams carry out early morning warrants across Heywood, Middleton and central Rochdale – with more than 20 people arrested by 9am. Officers uncovered imitation firearms and sophisticated cannabis farms linked to organised crime and drug supply.

From the start of the day at Heywood Sports Village, GMP teams were joined by specialist units, including Roads Policing, the Mounted Unit, and plain-clothes officers, who targeted known offenders. Warrants were executed at 15 separate addresses, and 40 arrests were made.

The Roads Policing Unit carried out vehicle checks on Queensway throughout the day, identifying motorists who were not paying due care and attention on the road. Offences included driving while using mobile phones.

Police seized over £50,000 worth of suspected criminal assets, recovered two imitation firearms, and shut down two cannabis farms.

Officers were also out in force on foot – using knife arches and patrols on key parts of the Bee Network tram line and Rochdale Interchange. One wanted suspect was detained thanks to intelligence-led stop checks.

In Freehold, Operation Affect continued its focus on tackling local drug supply and anti-social behaviour. Meanwhile, Operation Vigilant targeted illegal vapes and money laundering, and Operation Dragster took place in the evening to deal with off-road bikes causing problems on the moors.

Chief Superintendent Danny Inglis from GMP Rochdale said:
“This day of action is a chance for us to show the community what we’re doing all year round to keep people safe. With support from across the force, we’ve made real progress tackling the issues that matter most to residents.
“We’re really grateful to everyone who shares information with us – it makes a big difference.”

Operation AVRO is GMP’s monthly crackdown on local crime, focusing on a different borough each time.

Roch Valley Radio followed officers on warrants and patrols throughout the day. You can hear more in our news bulletins and interviews on-air and online.