GMP and partners join forces to leave "no stone unturned" to identify and apprehend people involved in large scale disturbances in the city centre

On Friday (21 July 2023), GMP were called to two incidents in the city centre. The first was at approximately 3pm and involved a large group of youths who were congregating in the Market Street/Piccadilly Gardens area.

Officers quickly responded to the area to provide reassurance to people in the area and workers from surrounding businesses. As a result, there were three arrests made on suspicion of public order offences. The males were bailed whilst investigations continue.

GMP later became aware of video footage circulating on social media of several people fighting in the Market Street area. When officers attended, people dispersed and left the area. An adult male was arrested on suspicion of possession of an offensive weapon and affray.

He has been released on bail pending further investigations.

Last night (Monday 24 July 2023) police were once again called to the city centre, following reports of large groups of youths causing ASB/public disorder.

Four people, aged between 16 to 18-years-old, were arrested on suspicion of affray and will continue to be interviewed this morning. Four police officers were assaulted during the affray. Investigations are continuing to establish whether the three incidents are linked.

Greater Manchester Police, together with partners from Manchester City Council (MCC) and local schools, are working together to ensure every attempt is made to identify the instigators of the three incidents, as well as the willing participants.

Chief Inspector of Neighbourhoods in the City Centre, Stephen Wiggins, said: "This kind of behaviour in the city centre, or indeed anywhere in Greater Manchester, will simply not be tolerated.

"We are working closely with our partners to ensure that no stone is left unturned. Our investigations are gathering at pace and we will be making more arrests.

"As part of our large-scale investigation, we have also been undertaking extensive CCTV enquiries and acting on intelligence we have received from members of the public.

"Officers are being deployed in and around the area in significant numbers to provide reassurance to the local community."

Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council Cllr Luthfur Rahman said: "These two unrelated incidents do not reflect Manchester city centre and will simply not be tolerated here. Together with the police we are sending out a message that we utterly condemn violent or disruptive behaviour in our city. We won't allow these rare incidents to create negative perceptions about our city.

"Those responsible will be held accountable, as the arrests already made illustrate, and I would encourage any members of the public who know anything about either incident to come forward and help the police." 

If there is anyone with any information regarding any of the above incidents, our officers are there for you to approach and speak to. Information can also be passed via 101 or through the Live Chat function on our website, www.gmp.police.uk.

Alternatively, the independent charity - Crimestoppers - can be contacted on 0800 555 111.