Police have stepped up patrols in Whitefield in response to concerns by locals.

The neighbourhood team have dedicated specific night shifts this week to monitoring known hotspots and reports of off-road bikes within the community, which have been known to be used by criminals

The operation started on Monday when officers spotted a male wearing a balaclava riding an off-road bike in the Victoria Lane estate.

Officers pursued the bike, before detaining a male following a short foot chase.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of burglary, no insurance, no licence, possession of Class-A drugs and failing to stop. He was subsequently released on bail pending further enquiries.

Shortly after, officers received reports of a stolen vehicle in the area, and within minutes, a suspected stolen campervan was recovered.

The vehicle was later reunited with its owner.

The following night, officers continued to monitor areas that had been reported to them, seizing cannabis from a driver, and stopping a woman who was driving a van while uninsured and without a licence.

The car was subsequently seized; the woman had a driver’s licence from a European country, which had ultimately not been transferred to here, and thus she was suspected of not driving with the proper documentation.

Officers are continuing to conduct patrols, both in marked and unmarked police cars, to deter, detect and arrest anyone suspected of criminality in the area.

In particular, officers have been closely monitoring off-road bikes.

Officers say they closely investigate each report sent into them, as all information assists in forming and building intelligence ­— from knowing what bikes to look out for, descriptions of those on them, working out when and where they are likely to be seen, and subsequently creating plans to catch suspected criminals in the act.

Sergeant Alexandra Flores, from Greater Manchester Police’s Bury district, said: “In recent weeks, we have received reports of various things which have been causing problems for residents of Whitefield and the surrounding community.

“We have been quick to act, moving officers and teams around to ensure that we are dealing with reports of criminality directly and head-on. So far this week, the neighbourhood team have been dealing with everything from off-road bikes to stolen vehicles and anti-social behaviour. We will always listen to those who are having a problem and I want Whitefield residents to know that we will act comprehensively to stop criminality.

“If you ever have a problem with anything, please do get in touch with us. You can report crime by calling 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Keep an eye on our social media pages for PACT meetings too – there, you can meet with officers who will be more than happy to discuss any concerns or queries you may have.”