Councillor Seeks Help to Stop Robbery Surge in Blackley

• councillor speaks after the Police appeal for information concerning robberies in Blackley
• Councillor encourages residents to cooperate with the police
• councillor assures residents of safety in Blackley

Councillor for Higher Blackley has called on residents to remain calm and assist the police with any information following a recent spate of robberies in Blackley and Moston. 

This plea follows a series of incidents that have raised concerns among local residents and prompted a police appeal for information. 

About the Robberies 

The spate of robberies began on Sunday, 1 October 2023, at a store on Victoria Avenue. This was followed by another incident on Thursday, 5 October, at a store on Haverfield Road. The crime wave continued with a third robbery on Sunday, 8 October, again at a store on Victoria Avenue. The following weeks saw further incidents on Sunday, 22 October, at a different store on Victoria Avenue and on Friday, 27 October, at a store on Hill Lane, where a worker sustained minor injuries during the robbery. 

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have been actively investigating these crimes, employing all available resources and lines of enquiry. Detective Sergeant Qadir Hussain from GMP’s City of Manchester district stated, “We have been utilising all lines of enquiry as we investigate these robberies, and I want to reassure the community that we are determined to find the person responsible.”

Councillor assures residents

In light of these events, Councillor Olesugun Ogunbambo has emphasized the importance of community cooperation in aiding the police. He said: “I am aware of these incidents, and measures have been put in place. We are receiving the community’s cooperation in helping the police apprehend the perpetrators.” 

Councillor Ogunbambo also sought to reassure residents, urging them to continue with their daily routines without fear. “Carry on with your day-to-day activities and do not live in fear. Report anything suspicious and do not hesitate to come forward with information. I believe the person responsible will be arrested soon, and life will return to normal,” he added. 

The local authorities are keen to stress the importance of vigilance and community involvement in resolving these cases. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities or information that could assist in the investigation to the police. This cooperative approach is seen as vital in ensuring the safety and security of the community. 

residents’ response 

The recent robberies have understandably caused anxiety among residents, but the concerted efforts of the police, supported by community members, aim to restore a sense of normalcy and safety in the area. The police have increased patrols and are working closely with local businesses to enhance security measures and gather any potential evidence. 

Elizabeth Wills, a resident in Blackley said: “during the time of the robberies, I was always panicking. This made the vicinity weird to walk around alone but I am grateful measures are put in place and the police is working hard to ensure our safety.” 

As the investigation continues, GMP urges anyone with information related to the robberies to come forward. Community support and cooperation are crucial in helping the authorities bring the perpetrators to justice and prevent further incidents. 

Residents with information can contact GMP directly through Report a crime | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk) or anonymously through Crimestoppers. By working together, the community can help ensure that Blackley and Moston remain safe places to live and work.