Greater Manchester Police’s Operation Wolverine: ANPR and Mobile App Lead to Record 1,000+ Vehicles Seized in July 2023
The roads of Greater Manchester witnessed an astonishing, record-breaking feat in July 2023. Over 1,000 vehicles were seized, marking a historic moment for Greater Manchester Police (GMP). But what’s the secret behind this remarkable achievement?
Operation Wolverine: Protecting Greater Manchester, One Vehicle at a Time
Operation Wolverine is a proactive operation dedicated to making Greater Manchester safer by reducing the number of severe accidents on our roads. Spearheaded by the dedicated officers of the Roads Policing Unit, this operation has become a beacon of hope for the region.
As of August 2023, more than 6,300 vehicles have been seized, and a significant portion of these success stories can be attributed to Operation Wolverine. This operation empowers officers to take uninsured vehicles and unlicensed drivers off the roads, ensuring safer travels for everyone.
ANPR Behind the Success
A specialised team of traffic officers, established in 2006, has been tirelessly working to combat vehicle-related crimes. Their hard work has been greatly bolstered by the recent upgrades to Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras across the force.
These ANPR cameras not only guard the roads but also strategic sites where criminals often venture. ANPR technology is a pivotal tool in the fight against crime, serving to detect, deter, and disrupt criminal activities.
Cleartone ANPR App: A Game-Changer
One of the most significant contributors to the surge in vehicles being seized is the Cleartone mobile ANPR app. This user-friendly application has been in the hands of officers from the Specialist Operations Branch since May 2023. It has quickly proven its worth, resulting in a nearly 30% increase in vehicles seized and a 50% boost for Operation Wolverine in its very first month of use.
Inspector Jon Middleton, part of the Specialist Operations Branch, highlights the importance of this innovation:
“This simple but effective technology is easily accessible while out on patrol and includes notifications for uninsured vehicles, which can have catastrophic consequences for those who use our motorways and road network legally.”
A Safer Future with Technology and Commitment
Greater Manchester Police is committed to ensuring the safety of its roads. By working smarter and employing cutting-edge technology like the ANPR app, they aim to benefit both the force and the public.
The app is currently being trialled with districts and Specials, who are also reaping the rewards of its ease of use in identifying illegal drivers and uninsured vehicles.
Furthermore, funding from vehicles that are auctioned, if not claimed by their owners, goes toward supporting vital community projects, ensuring that the benefits of this operation extend beyond the roads.
In Conclusion
Operation Wolverine’s achievement of over 1,000 vehicles seized in a single month is a testament to the dedication and innovation of the Greater Manchester Police. With the power of ANPR technology and the Cleartone mobile app, they are not only making the roads safer but also enhancing their ability to protect and serve the community.
Together, they are forging a path towards a safer, more secure future for Greater Manchester.