Five charged following Oldham disorder investigation

Five men were charged yesterday (11 August) for assaulting a 20-year-old man near Featherstall Road North in Oldham.

It follows several incidents of disorder which occurred in Oldham in July this year and which were believed to have been sparked by a video that was circulating online showing the assault.

The assault in question occurred on 21 June 2022 and involved a 20-year-old man being attacked by a group of males in an alleyway off Featherstall Road North.

Following a thorough investigation by Greater Manchester Police Oldham Criminal Investigation Department, five males - who cannot be named for legal reasons as they are under 18 - have now been charged with section 18 offences of causing grievous bodily harm with intent.

A female has also been eliminated as a suspect and has been assisting with the investigation.

Chief Superintendent Chris Bowen, from GMP’s Oldham district, said: “This was a particularly vicious attack and I hope the charges today go some way to reassure the community of Oldham that Greater Manchester Police will not tolerate this kind of behaviour.

“A young male was violently assaulted, and it understandably upset and disturbed many here in Oldham. Safety remains our number one priority and we will continue to work towards making Oldham a safer place to live and work together.

“I would like to reassure the people in Oldham that our investigation is progressing at a rapid pace and our aim above all is to bring those responsible to justice.”

Councillor Amanda Chadderton, Leader of Oldham Council, added: “I’m glad to see that the police investigation into this horrific incident is progressing, and has reached this important stage.

“I also know that there has been significant concern in the local community, and would encourage people to continue to engage with us, and with police, as they work to bring those responsible to justice.”