TEN people have been arrested in a series of raids across Bolton.

The raids, which took place in Bolton and across Greater Manchester over the last week, were intended to catch criminals who may have moved home or tried to evade capture, police said.

Police say many of those arrested had tried to give police the slip by changing their address or phone number.

One of the 10 arrested in Bolton was a man suspected of committing an assault, causing grievous bodily harm, in Breightmet in 2013.

He was also wanted for breaching a court order and had been on the run for more than 12 months.

Insp Simon Miskell said: “Those who think they have got away with crimes as the days go by should know we don’t lose sight of outstanding crimes.

“There is a relentless ongoing drive to arrest known offenders in Bolton."

Police also visited the homes of criminals across Greater Manchester to ensure they were sticking to their bail and curfew conditions and not returning to crime.

They also visited victims of domestic abuse to ensure their abusing partners do not return.

Dep Ch Con Ian Hopkins said: “The response we got from people on the streets who witnessed our activity was fantastic.

“It demonstrated the confidence people have to give us information and work with us to tackle criminality.

“As the nights get darker, there is a rise in the number of opportunist thieves who like to prey on unsuspecting homes. By getting in before they do, we can help put a stop in their tracks."

Police arrested more than 120 people across Greater Manchester as part of the blitz, which was codenamed Operation Storm.

A cannabis farm with about 90 plants was found at a house in Mornington Crescent, Fallowfield, Manchester, while two men, aged 18 and 19, were arrested for their roles in a cash van robbery.

Residents can report any suspicious activity to police on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.