SANTA Claus will be joining Bury's fight against Christmas thieves.
That is the codename for Greater Manchester Police helicopter's role in the festive crime crackdown.
Operation Santa will run until the New Year using the advanced technical equipment carried on board the force helicopter - call sign India Nine Nine -to support police officers on the ground.
The helicopter will make additional fly-bys over the borough's supermarkets, car parks and other retail centres.
Recent developments now mean offenders can run - but not hide. The helicopter's camera can zoom in on car registration plates as well as individuals, giving the police extremely valuable information. It is also fixed with state-of-the-art heat sensing cameras.
Bury's senior police officer, Chief Superintendent Phil Hollowood, has welcomed the helicopter's help in fighting crime.
He said: "Ground operations by our officers will reassure the public every thing is being done to protect them from criminals.
"The helicopter will compliment this fight and ensure the people of Bury and surrounding towns enjoy a crime-free Christmas and New Year."
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