GMP seize FIREARM and multiple knives in weekend sweeps

Police have seized at least one firearm and three knives in Rochdale during weekend sweeps.

An image shared by the force shows a firearm and ammunition, as well as three knives, which were taken during the searches in Heywood.

Officers said they wanted to 'reassure our community' that they are 'proactively trying to disrupt criminals by removing any opportunity to cause harm'.

READ MORE: Another weekend of bloodshed in Greater Manchester as nearly 30 people stabbed and one shot dead THIS YEAR

It comes after Greater Manchester suffered its first fatal shooting this year on Saturday in Openshaw.

In a Facebook post, the force said: "Another busy weekend of sweeping for weapons and completing checks. We have recovered a few more items which will be booked in for safe keeping and destruction.

"We strive to continue to keep our community and its residents safe and to reassure our community that we are proactively trying to disrupt criminals by removing any opportunity to cause harm.

"This coupled with our school inputs to educate children regarding the dangers and implications of carrying knives shows how we are trying to tackle the issue from all angles."

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