The operation has led to four arrests over gun crime

Detectives have launched an operation after a number of firearm incidents in the south Manchester and Trafford areas.

Four people have already been arrested and bailed since the start of Operation Bradford on 15 September.

Assistant Chief Constable Dave Whatton said: "Up until the end of August this year, the number of shootings in Greater Manchester had dropped by 5% from 79 to 75 on the same period last year.

"Recent weeks have seen this figure rise which is why Operation Bradford has been introduced.

Gang activity

"We are determined to stamp out this type of criminal behaviour and firearms activity."

Mr Whatton said officers would work with local communities to gather intelligence on gang activity.

He added: "We will not tolerate the gun culture which seems to be developing in small elements of society, but need the help of local residents in order to stamp it out.

"Carrying or using guns will not be tolerated and gang members need to know we will continue to deploy armed officers to combat the problem."

There have been four shootings, one fatal, in the Moss Side and Whalley Range areas of south Manchester in the past month.

Police also investigated three shootings in the Old Trafford and Urmston areas of Greater Manchester during August.