TWO cars were seized in Greater Manchester Police's largest ever operation to remove criminals from the roads.

More than 250 police in more than 100 vehicles were drafted in for the operation - codenamed Galilieo - today, using automatic number plate recognition technology.

Police in Bolton were stationed on the A666 St Peter’s Way.

Two cars were seized because the drivers had no insurance or licence.

The cars were seized and displayed in Albert Square, Manchester — in a bid to show people that crime does not pay.

One person was summonsed to court for driving offences, while six crimes were recorded for traffic offences including speeding, not wearing a seatbelt and using a mobile while driving.

Five drivers were advised on various issues including their speed and manner of driving.

Supt Craig Thompson, who was overseeing the operation, said: “We will not allow the safety of our roads to be compromised by criminals, and the purpose of today’s operation is to disrupt illegal activity and deny offenders the use of the roads.

“ANPR cameras are used to detect vehicles connected to crime, or those being driven illegally, and can scan more than 3,000 number plates an hour.

"There is a strong link between the illegal use of vehicles on the road and other types of serious crime, and we will use all equipment available to bring offenders to justice.

“Criminals can be assured that this is not just a one-off operation. Our officers patrol the roads 365 days of the year and will continue to target them.”

Police reaped rewards across the force with nearly 900 checks being carried out on vehicles, and 31 cars were seized for not being licensed, insured or taxed.

And eight people were arrested on suspicion of crimes including possession of drugs, possessing an offensive weapon and affray, and a cannabis farm was found in Whalley Range.