Volunteer joins police in fight against crime

SPECIAL Constable Hassan Chaudhry - keen to give something back to the local community

A FORMER Pakistani national now living in Oldham is among a wave of new Greater Manchester Police recruits.

Hassan Chaudhry (30) is one of 43 new special constables who have been welcomed by the force.

Hassan originally moved from Pakistan to the UK five years ago and joins the service following his brother-in-law, who has been a Special Constable for 10 years.

Hassan's day jobs include working as a part-time manager in a garage and also looking after their online car accessory shop, as well as a part-time mail sorter for the Royal Mail.

Hassan said: "Three years ago my sister was involved in a car accident.

"Luckily she wasn't hurt but she was badly shaken.

"Thankfully, the police attending the scene helped to calm her and put her at ease.

"What happened to my sister inspired me to join GMP as a special constable. The work is difficult but it helps me to give something meaningful back to my community.''

All of the recruits have completed a five-month training programme and, once fully operational, will volunteer at least four hours of their free time every week.

The main focus of their duties will be to assist GMP officers in serving local communities and preventing crime.

All special constables share the same powers as regular officers, including the power of arrest.

Valued

GMP Deputy Chief Constable Ian Pilling said: "Special constables play an integral role in policing Greater Manchester.

"Their contribution in preventing and reducing crime, as well as building links with communities, is really appreciated and valued by both the force and members of the public.

"They cannot be applauded highly enough for their commitment and dedication to keeping Greater Manchester and its communities safe."

For more information on how to become a special constable, visit the GMP website at gmp.police.uk.