Appeal for witnesses following reports of attempted kidnapping in Oldham

Officers in Oldham are appealing for witnesses following reports of an attempted kidnapping yesterday (Friday 14 July 2023).

At approximately 8pm, it is reported that a woman was approached by two men who had been driving in a small white van, around the junction of Lily Street and Godson Street.

The two men then grabbed the woman, threatening her, and telling her to get into their van.

A member of the public walking his dog then intervened, following which the men left, driving up Godson Street towards the junction with Crompton Street.

The two men are described as both being white males in their 30s. One was reported to be 6 foot tall, with a medium build, dark short hair and a goatee, with a sleeve tattoo on his right arm.

The other was reported as being around 5’5”, with a skinny build, blonde hair, with a small moustache and stubble. 

Officers are supporting the woman and are currently investigating the incident.

Chief Inspector Matthew Walker, of GMP’s Oldham district, said: “Since we received the report of this incident, we have been working hard and following multiple lines of enquiry to fully investigate the circumstances.

“While reports of this nature are concerning, I want to reassure the community that we always take these sort of incidents extremely seriously and we are dedicated to keeping residents safe. We have put extra patrols in place and those officers will be more than happy to discuss any concerns you may have.

“I would ask anyone who was around the area at the time, or may have witnessed anything, to please get in touch. In particular, I urge the passer-by who intervened to please contact us, as their information could greatly assist our investigation.

“If there is anyone in the area with doorbell, dashcam or CCTV footage, I would also please ask them to contact us.”

Anyone with any information is asked to call 101, quoting log number 3276 of 14/7/23.

Alternatively, information can be passed to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.