Vulnerable people and children being paid to damage shared houses in Salford, police believe
A seventh arrest has been made as the investigation continues
Police investigating a spate of damage to houses across Greater Manchester believe vulnerable people, including children, are being exploited and paid to damage buildings.
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) said it is one area of focus for officers looking into criminal damage to houses in multiple occupation (HMOs), or buildings being mistaken for HMOs.
Chief Superintendent Marcus Noden said:
"One area of focus continues to be our belief that vulnerable people - including children - are being exploited and paid to damage buildings."
Chief Superintendent Noden said:
"Our relentless pursuit of those causing or facilitating this recent spate of damage is not letting up as we continue to explore multiple lines of enquiry."
Seventh arrest made
A 26-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage.
Salford officers arrested him while on patrol in Valencia Road on 27th October.
The arrest is in connection with damage caused in Littleton Road on 22nd October.
GMP said the man remains in custody for questioning.
It means seven people have now been arrested as part of the enquiries.
How to report information
Chief Superintendent Noden said:
"If you know anything that could help us, we're continuing to urge you to come forward and speak to us. The information you provide us with could form a vital part of helping us piece this together."
People can report information to GMP online or by calling 101.
Anyone who would rather not speak to police can give information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers on freephone 0800 555 111, or by filling out a form on its website.