Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that eight people have been arrested as part of a major, coordinated investigation into a spree of criminal damage targeting Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs) across the region.
Since the beginning of October, authorities have received 63 separate reports of vandalism against HMOs—or properties mistakenly identified as such—spanning six different boroughs. The targeted attacks have created a wave of concern, with incidents recorded in Salford, Tameside, Stockport, Bolton, Rochdale, and Wigan.
Police have described the response to this string of offences as “coordinated and targeted.” The latest arrest occurred on Monday, November 2, and the force has confirmed that officers are working alongside partner organisations to better understand the motive behind the attacks and to provide a robust response to the ongoing criminality.
Chief Superintendent Marcus Noden issued a stern warning to those responsible, vowing that the investigation will not lose momentum. “Our investigation has led to eight people being brought into our custody so far,” Noden said. “We won’t stop until everyone involved in this criminality is made to answer for their actions. I’d continue to urge anyone who thinks they can help our efforts to get in touch with us.”
Noden noted that the situation remains fluid, revealing that police have seen three additional reports of similar damage even after the most recent arrest. To reassure the public and deter further vandalism, a heightened police presence remains in the affected areas as enforcement action continues.
One individual has already been processed through the courts. Ruben Brito, 35, of Chapel Road, Prestwich, has been charged with two counts of causing criminal damage to a single property. The charges stem from incidents at a location on Littleton Road in Kersal, which occurred on October 18 and October 22, 2026. Brito is scheduled to appear at Manchester and Salford Magistrates Court on March 3, 2027.
The force is encouraging the public to assist in the investigation by reporting any suspicious activity. Information can be submitted directly to Greater Manchester Police by calling 101 or by using their online reporting portal. Those who prefer to remain anonymous can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
As the investigation continues, police have pledged to maintain their presence in the impacted communities until those behind the campaign of damage are fully identified and prosecuted. With 63 reports now on file, detectives are working to piece together the full scale of the criminal activity and ensure that property owners across the region can feel secure in their homes once more.
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