Stop and Search Turns Up More Than Loose Change in Piccadilly Gardens

The Piccadilly Gardens Neighbourhood Policing Team have been out on patrol again today, continuing their visible presence in Manchester city centre and making several key arrests.

Officers confirmed that one individual was arrested for being in possession of an offensive weapon, while two others were detained on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs. Worryingly, one of those arrested was a 15-year-old child.

The team say the arrests were made possible thanks to their proactive use of stop-and-search powers, which remain a cornerstone of their approach to tackling crime in busy public areas.

Sergeant Jon Wyatt, who leads the Piccadilly Gardens Neighbourhood Policing Team, said:

“Stop search is an important tool for us – when used correctly, it helps us take dangerous weapons and harmful drugs off the streets before they can do real damage. Some people criticise it without understanding the realities we face day-to-day, but without it we’d be left standing like a lump of lard while crime carries on around us. Today’s results show why it matters.”

The team have pledged to maintain a strong presence in Piccadilly Gardens, working with the community and partner agencies to prevent crime, protect vulnerable people, and keep the city centre safe.