Eight people have been arrested as part of an ongoing Greater Manchester Police investigation into suspected criminal damage at houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) across the region.
Since the beginning of October, police have received 63 reports of damage to HMOs, or properties mistaken as such, across six of the ten Greater Manchester boroughs. The most recent arrest took place on Monday (November 2), with one person already appearing in court, in what the force described as a 'coordinated and targeted' response.
Damage Reported Across Six Boroughs
Damage has so far been reported in Salford, Tameside, Stockport, Bolton, Rochdale and Wigan. Chief Superintendent Marcus Noden said GMP was working with partner organisations to 'better understand this issue and robustly respond'.
"Our investigation has led to eight people being brought into our custody so far and, since making the latest arrest, we've seen three further reports of similar damage," he said.
Police Pledge Continued Enforcement
"We won't stop until everyone involved in this criminality is made to answer for their actions and I'd continue to urge anyone who thinks they can help our efforts to get in touch with us," Noden added. "You will continue to see our officers in areas that have been affected by this criminality as we continue our enforcement action."
Information can be submitted to GMP by calling 101 or reporting online. Anonymous information can also be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Court Appearance Over Kersal Damage
Ruben Brito, 35, of Chapel Road, Prestwich, is to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court on 3 March, 2027, after being charged with two counts of causing criminal damage to one property. The charges relate to alleged criminal damage to a property in Littleton Road, Kersal, on October 18 and October 22, 2026.
