A "proactive police operation" in Stockport has resulted in 28 arrests and 88 charges, while obtaining multiple closure orders on properties.

It comes after Greater Manchester Police's Stockport East Neighbourhood Policing Team executed a total of ten warrants since February this year.

Seven full and partial closure orders have been granted, which are dedicated to the Woodley area.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: "The operation by the team, working closely with Stockport District Intelligence Unit and led by Sergeant Mathew Fazl-Lavasanni, had been set up to combat a multitude of criminality, including drug-dealing, prostitution, exploitation, anti-social behaviour, and more.

"By tackling the direct source in conjunction with partners, officers have been making a concentrated effort to improve the lives of local people."

Most recently, officers were granted a closure order at a property at Woodley Precinct.

The police force said officers had gathered intelligence that people were being exploited and that the address was being used as a brothel.

The property was subject to a warrant on 10 September.

The final full closure order was granted by Manchester Magistrates Court on 22 September, for a period of three months.

The closure came under the under the Sexual Offences Act 2003.

As a result, the property will be subject to multiple conditions, and access to the address will be prevented during that time.

Greater Manchester Police said that "further reviews will take place in due course to ensure criminality does not return to the area".

PC Jordan Weakley, from GMP's Stockport district, said: "Our investigations and action as part of this dedicated operation has seen vital partnership work, proactive engagement, and the protection of people being exploited by criminality within our district.

"Closure orders are always welcome results, and I am glad that locals will no longer have to put up with these issues. Their intelligence and tip-offs have helped us massively – we always take concerns seriously and will do what we can to help.

"Going forward, we will continue to aid vulnerable people, arrest those involved in criminality, and shut down any properties causing issues for the law-abiding residents of Stockport."

Since February, officers have secured 28 arrests, 88 charges, and obtained five Criminal Behaviour Orders as part of the work.

The police force says multiple victims have also been rehoused and engagement events have assisted local residents in the community.

Additionally, more than 220 pieces of intelligence have been submitted, along with ongoing criminality disruptions.

A spokesperson for Greater Manchester Police said: "Safeguarding work is ongoing in relation to victims identified during the course of any investigations."

Sergeant Fazl-Lavasanni said: "The work delivered by the Stockport East Neighbourhood Team has been nothing short of exceptional.

"Their relentless dedication, proactive policing and unwavering commitment to safeguarding the community have transformed Woodley beyond recognition.

"By tackling drug dealing and criminality head-on, they have not only disrupted those intent on causing harm but have restored confidence, stability and pride within the neighbourhood."