Rochdale Man Converted Blank-Firing Weapons in Gang Dispute

Rochdale, Greater Manchester — A Rochdale man who obtained materials to convert blank-firing firearms into viable weapons as part of a gang dispute has pleaded guilty to firearms offences, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have announced.

The guilty pleas follow, "Operation Barclose", a targeted investigation launched in Rochdale after intelligence suggested a local man had travelled to Bradford to purchase a blank-firing gun.

According to GMP, the investigation revealed that the primary suspect intended to modify the weapon. Detectives discovered he had obtained specific materials required to convert the blank firers into viable firearms.

Police believe the activity was linked to a wider gang dispute and a specific shooting incident.

The operation culminated in a series of police raids which resulted in the recovery of a viable firearm and ammunition. Several suspects were arrested at the time and have since pleaded guilty to a string of offences. They are currently remanded in custody awaiting sentencing.

Chief Superintendent Danny Inglis, who leads the Rochdale district, praised the multi-agency effort behind the crackdown.

"This investigation showed teamwork at its best, with Challenger and CID working together to develop intelligence into warrants that resulted in arrests, charges and a dangerous OCG [Organised Crime Group] member being taken off the streets of Rochdale", Inglis said.

The recovery highlights the ongoing police focus on the 'conversion' trend, where criminals purchase non-lethal starting weapons and modify them to fire live rounds.

GMP confirmed that enquiries remain ongoing and urged the public to continue reporting information regarding organised crime via their dedicated channels.