Seven males arrested so far as investigation into violent assault at Spring Street Metrolink continues.

 

Officers were called around 7pm on Sunday 10 October to Spring Street Metrolink stop to reports of a disturbance involving two large groups of young people.

A number of officers attended and located a 15-year-old boy who had been assaulted with a sharp weapon, causing a deep cut to his head.

Thankfully his injuries are not life-threatening or changing and he has since been discharged.

Three boys, all aged 15, were arrested on nearby on Belgrave Street in Radcliffe a short time later on suspicion of assault. They have been interviewed and released on bail.

Officers have since arrested four males, on suspicion of violent disorder. They have been all been released on bail.

Yesterday evening (13 October) a section 60 PACE stop search authority was put in place in the Radcliffe area to prevent any further incidents of disorder occurring.

Chief Inspector Jamie Collins of GMP's Bury District said: "We completely recognise the deep concern this incident has created for the community and I want to reassure the public we have a dedicated operation - Op Heliodor - in place to both investigate the original assault and ensure the community is kept safe from further incidents.

"We have additional staff and specialist officers designated to this operation and are actively working with colleagues from our transport unit and Transport for Greater Manchester to ensure there is a heightened police presence and patrols across Whitefield and Radcliffe.

"We believe this to have been a targeted incident amongst a group of young boys. I want to send a clear message that this behaviour will absolutely not be tolerated in our area and we will take robust action with anyone involved in carrying knifes or other weapons.

"We are continuing to work with partners within our community safety partners and other stakeholders, including youth services, to help tackle anti-social issues in the area but I would also appeal to the community for their support. In particular, I directly appeal to parents - please make sure you know where your children are during the evening. Winter evenings are beginning to creep in and it's vital that we are all playing our part to ensure our children are kept safe at night."

Police are continuing to appeal for information or footage, including CCTV and dashcam footage.

Anyone with information can get in touch via LiveChat on our website www.gmp.police.uk, or call 0161 856 8172 quoting log 2852 of 10/10/21. Alternatively details can be passed anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.