Partnership operation targets crime and antisocial behaviour across Manchester rail network

A coordinated partnership operation is continuing to tackle criminality and antisocial behaviour across Greater Manchester’s rail network, with agencies working together to improve safety for passengers and local communities.

As part of ongoing activity linked to Operation Vulcan, officers from Greater Manchester Police joined colleagues from British Transport Police, rail operators and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) for a recent day of action focused on stations and transport routes across the city-region.

The operation aimed to disrupt the movement of drugs, weapons and other criminal activity on the rail network, while also providing a visible reassurance presence for passengers travelling through Greater Manchester.

High-visibility patrols were carried out at stations and surrounding transport hubs, with officers engaging directly with members of the public, offering advice and responding to concerns around safety and antisocial behaviour.

During the latest operation, police carried out a number of stop-and-searches based on reasonable suspicion, resulting in several positive drug detections involving Class A and Class B substances. Enforcement activity also targeted fare evasion and wider low-level offences that can contribute to disorder across the transport system.

The activity forms part of a broader strategy aimed at improving public confidence across Manchester’s transport network and preventing criminal groups from using rail routes to move drugs, weapons and stolen property between communities.

Since Operation Vulcan expanded activity into parts of Greater Manchester earlier this year, officers have secured multiple arrests, recovered drugs and seized vehicles linked to criminal activity.

Police say the operation relies heavily on partnership working between transport providers, enforcement agencies, councils and community organisations to deliver a long-term and sustainable approach to tackling crime.

Inspector Dan Cullum, from GMP’s Operation Vulcan team, said collaboration between agencies is essential in creating a safer transport environment across the region.

He said joint operations with British Transport Police, rail staff and TfGM help strengthen intelligence-sharing and allow resources to be coordinated more effectively, while also maintaining a strong visible presence for the travelling public.

Transport partners added that ensuring passengers feel safe while using public transport remains a key priority, particularly as Greater Manchester continues to expand and integrate services through the Bee Network.

The latest operation reflects wider efforts across the city-region to improve safety, reduce disruption and support a more reliable and secure public transport system for residents, workers and visitors alike.