'They're ruining lives and people are scared to grass - it's time to take action'

Two shootings amid a wave of criminality have triggered a major police crackdown in a Salford neighbourhood. The aim is to dismantle organised crime groups operating in the Little Hulton area, top cops say.

So far, 25 arrests have been made. As well as firearms incidents, Ellesmere Shopping Centre has been a target for thefts, criminal damage and anti-social behaviour, Greater Manchester Police say.

Buses have been vandalised and yobs on off-road bikes and e-scooters - often wearing balaclavas - have caused disruption and fear among the community. Police believe 15 to 20 individuals are members of several organised crime groups (OCGs) in the area.

The most recent shooting was in December. Police believe two suspects on two motorbikes carried out a gun attack on a home in Ellesmere Close off Queen Street. Three shots were fired, leaving two bullet holes in a window and one in the frame beneath.

The December 27 attack is still under investigation. It was the catalyst for Operation Broadway being launched by GMP. Detective Chief Inspector Gareth Humphreys said: "A number of incidents have taken place in Little Hulton, which have led us to identifying it as a vulnerability location.

"There has been a lot of anti-social behaviour, drug dealing, violent crime and firearms discharges. We aim to target all those elements and get some confidence back in the community."

The operation also involves Salford council's Safeguarding Team and housing associations, working with police to tackle the 'exploitation of the vulnerable' by criminals and to steer young people away from being associated with OCGs.

DCI Humphreys added: "A housing organisation worked closely with us so we were able to get enough evidence for a closure order on