Firearm found in residential area

Police have found a handgun at the back of residential properties in Derker after conducting a search of secluded woodland as part of an ongoing weapons sweep initiative.

The revolver was discovered on Fontwell Lane yesterday (Thursday) by officers from the Operation Vulcan team.  

This was safely and forensically recovered and will be examined by expert officers to determine if it is a viable weapon. 

Building on the team’s operational successes in Cheetham Hill and Piccadilly Gardens, Derker, in Oldham, is the latest initiative to join the ranks of Operation Vulcan, which has enabled a team of GMP officers and partners to combat the issues blighting the community.  

Working with Oldham Council, a variety of partner agencies and using specialist resources from across the force, officers are determined to tackle anti-social behaviour, drug crime, vehicle crime and anti-social driving, child criminal exploitation, cuckooing and violent crime. 

Detective Chief Inspector Christian Julien from Operation Vulcan said: “This successful weapon sweep in Derker demonstrates Operation Vulcan’s continued commitment to making Oldham’s streets safer. 

“The recovery of this firearm is significant - firearms have plagued our community for too long, and we are doing everything in our power to get these lethal weapons off our streets. 

“We will relentlessly pursue offenders who choose to carry and use these lethal weapons, which threaten the safety of the community, and will work tirelessly to identify, locate and recover illegal firearms through operations like this one. 

“Since 2021, we have successfully recovered 315 firearms across our operations, and each weapon taken off the streets potentially saves lives." 

If you have any information about firearms or other criminality in Derker and Oldham, officers encourage you to report it.

Information can be shared by calling 101, or by using the Live Chat function online. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, call the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.