Greater Manchester Police have arrested a third suspect in connection with a spate of criminal damage targeting houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) across the region, as the force said it is taking the incidents "extremely seriously."
This morning (October 21), a 33-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage and has been taken into custody. The force said it has received 46 reports of criminal damage to properties that are either HMOs, or properties being mistaken for HMOs, since October 5.
Incidents Across Three Boroughs
The majority of incidents have taken place in Salford, but additional reports of damage have occurred in Stockport and Tameside. Last week, two properties in Heaton Norris were targeted with anti-HMO graffiti.
Unrelated to that incident, two men, aged 46 and 39, were arrested in Salford on October 20 on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage and have since been bailed.
Police Response and Investigation
GMP said that evidence gathered by officers "continues to suggest" that the incidents are "linked to the criminal exploitation of children." Chief Superintendent Marcus Noden said: "We recognise that the spread of damage to properties across Greater Manchester will be worrying for people living in the areas affected.
"I want to reiterate that we are taking this spate of damage extremely seriously and are continuing to relentlessly target offenders, including those who we believe are using and exploiting children to orchestrate the criminality.
"Today's action means three people have been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage this week – and I hope it sends a strong message that anyone involved in this offending will be made to answer for their actions.
Further Action Expected
Noden added: "Our communities can expect to see further action from GMP in connection with this issue." Anyone with information that could support the investigation is being asked to report online or call 101. Details can also be passed anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
