Greater Manchester Police have confirmed they are investigating 40 reports of criminal damage linked to an apparent 'HMO' crime spree, with the vast majority of cases now being treated as racially or religiously motivated.
Of the 40 incidents, 38 took place in Salford, while two further reports were received in Stockport, the force said in an update.
Windows smashed and graffiti daubed
The windows of homes suspected of being houses of multiple occupation have been smashed, with graffiti daubed on walls. Police said properties mistaken for HMOs have also been targeted.
In a statement, GMP said: "Our investigation into a spate of criminal damage offences is progressing as we work closely with partners to crack down on the offending.
"Since 5 October, we have received 40 reports of criminal damage at properties – which include HMOs. We also believe properties mistaken for HMOs are being targeted. A total of 38 of the offences under investigation have been committed in Salford."
Social media monitored and patrols continue
The force added further incidents were reported in Stockport on Friday. Officers are continuing to monitor social media coverage of the incidents.
"Officers are continuing to monitor social media coverage of criminal damage incidents, and we’re urging members of the public to refer to trusted sources of information for the latest updates," the statement went on.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Emma Puckering, said: "We're taking a robust approach to tackling this spate of offending and I want to reiterate our message from earlier this week: it simply won’t be tolerated.
"Due to the nature of the suspected crimes, the vast majority of the reports we have received are being treated as racially or religiously motivated. Patrols will continue over the weekend – including in Stockport – as officers continue to make themselves available to members of our communities.
"If you have questions or want to raise concerns about events over the past days, then please speak to an officer. They are there to help.
"We also appreciate that not everyone wants to deal directly with police. If this is you, then be aware that you can report information completely anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers. You can do this by calling freephone 0800 555 111 or by filling out a simple and secure form on their website. They will not ask for your details and no one will know you have contacted them."
Council condemns attacks
Salford Council said the attacks were being linked. Councillor Barbara Bentham, Lead Member for Neighbourhoods, Environment and Community Safety at Salford City Council, said: "We stand alongside Greater Manchester Police and our law-abiding citizens to send an unequivocal message that violence, intimidation and criminal damage will not be tolerated.
"There is no place for criminal damage, especially when that damage is caused to someone’s home. This is absolutely unacceptable as everyone in Salford has the right to feel safe in their own home."
No further details have been revealed.
