THERE were more than 2,000 reported residential burglaries in Bolton last year, figures have revealed.

But the statistic of 2,059 reported break-ins at homes in the borough in 2020 is down more than 100 from the year before (2,170), with police stating that the effect of the pandemic and officers targeting burglary hotspots have played a part in the reduction.

The amount of reported business and community burglaries was 29 per cent lower in 2020 (592) than 2019 (837) as well.

The national lockdowns, with residents forced to stay at home more and businesses ordered to close, would have led to a decrease in these crimes.

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Chief Inspector Stuart Maley-Jones of Greater Manchester Police's (GMP) Bolton district said: "Burglary can have a significant impact on victims and their families, and we continue to work with our communities to support those who have been affected, and also to help residents take preventative measures to deter criminals.

"We have seen decreases in reports of burglary during the pandemic and while Covid has been one of these reasons – we believe it is not solely down to this.

"We have been working with our local communities across Bolton to target hotspot areas, adapt our resources and strategies in line with crime trends we are seeing, and engage with residents to offer crime prevention advice."

Police are also encouraging residents to keep reporting burglaries and make sure they keep their homes secure to help stop criminals breaking in.

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CI Maley-Jones added: "I would ask the communities to pass on any information regarding those who are believed to be involved in this type of crime, including places that handle stolen goods, and report any suspicious activity.

"Intelligence informs the strategies we adapt, to help keep everyone safe.

“We will continue work to fight crime and bring offenders to justice.

"But I would also ask residents and business owners to play their part, and follow our simple advice – make sure windows and doors are locked, set light timers/ alarms, and keep valuables well hidden.”

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The data was provided by GMP from a Freedom of Information request.