Operation Avro in Rochdale Town Centre

Rochdale — Greater Manchester Police’s latest Operation Avro deployment in Rochdale Town Centre has come under scrutiny after a member of the press alleged they were subjected to an unlawful stop-and-search by an officer during the operation.

Officer's preparing for #OpAvro | Image: GMP

Operation Avro is a high-visibility policing initiative carried out across Greater Manchester boroughs, designed to target crime hotspots through increased patrols, arrests, and community engagement. The operation was conducted in Rochdale Town Centre with a visible police presence throughout the day and evening, and members of the press were invited to attend and observe elements of the operation.

However, controversy arose when a press attendee reported being stopped and searched by a female officer identified as PC 16508 Slater.

According to the press member, the officer allegedly carried out the stop-and-search without clear legal grounds and failed to follow several procedural requirements set out in police policy. The journalist claims the encounter raised serious concerns about adherence to professional standards within Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

The press attendee states that PC Slater was not displaying a visible collar number on her uniform at the time of the encounter. GMP policy requires officers to display identifying numbers so they can be easily recognised and held accountable during operational duties.

It is further alleged that the officer activated her body-worn camera without informing the individual, which is contrary to guidance stating that officers should, where practicable, notify members of the public when recording is taking place.

The journalist described the stop-and-search as unlawful, arguing that the interaction lacked justification and did not follow proper procedures expected of officers conducting searches under policing powers.

The incident has prompted renewed criticism from observers who argue that Greater Manchester Police must continue to strengthen accountability and professional conduct following past concerns surrounding standards within the force.

Operation Avro has been widely promoted by GMP as a key tool in tackling local crime and improving community confidence in policing. The initiative typically involves coordinated deployments including neighbourhood officers, specialist units, and engagement with local businesses and residents.

Despite the operation’s stated goals of transparency and community reassurance, critics say incidents such as this risk undermining public trust if policies and procedures are not consistently followed.

At the time of publication, it is unclear whether a formal complaint has been submitted to Greater Manchester Police’s Professional Standards Directorate.

Greater Manchester Police has not yet issued a public comment regarding the alleged incident.

The situation highlights ongoing debates around police accountability, stop-and-search powers, and the treatment of journalists observing policing operations, particularly where the media has been formally invited to attend.

Further details may emerge as the matter is reviewed or if a formal complaint is lodged with oversight bodies.