TIME is running out for people on the run from justice. Police at Leigh have this week mounted a major purge to trace people trying to evade the legal system (writes Malcolm Ryding).

Detectives and uniformed officers in the Leigh sub-division are combining in 'Operation Leipzig' to track down bail-jumpers, court absconders, people on warrants and those on-the-run from custodial sentences.

Det Ch Insp Mike Whiting and the Crime Management Unit are masterminding the operation and are sure that tracking down the people will cut further crime in the area.

"Lots of these people who absent themselves from justice have no means of supporting themselves. They can't draw social benefits or work legally.

"The only money they will be able to raise is through the proceeds of crime.

"Through 'Operation Leipzig' we are tackling that area of criminality by getting these people back before the courts or the places from which they have absconded.

"If we get people back into custody, before the courts, we will reduce the crime levels even more in the sub-division."

Mr Whiting appealed for help from the public to make 'Operation Leipzig' even more successful.

"If people know anyone who is unlawfully at large, have jumped bail, are on warrant or have absconded, we want them to telephone the Crimestoppers. Their calls will be in strictest confidence, or they can contact the Crime Management Unit, again in strictest confidence."

Crimestoppers is on 0800 555111. The CMU is on 0161 856 7245.

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