Man arrested following reports of multiple cars being damaged in Wigan

A 23-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage following reports that multiple vehicles had been damaged in the Scholes and Ince areas of Wigan.

Across the evening of Tuesday 21 November, it is believed that up to 60 vehicles were scratched or otherwise damaged – with potentially more having gone unnoticed.

Officers have been scouring CCTV and doorbell footage, which led to the suspect being identified and subsequently arrested in the Merseyside area yesterday (26 November 2023).

Inspector Michael Crosthwaite, from GMP's Wigan district, said: “Criminal damage on a scale like this  is incredibly concerning, and I know that residents will have been worrying about the safety of their property.

“However, I want people to be assured that we have worked flat-out, and I hope this quick arrest demonstrates our commitment to investigating and tackling crimes.

“We are still appealing for any information – if you believe your vehicle has been damaged, you can get in touch with us for advice and guidance.”

You can report information to police by calling 101, or by visiting gmp.police.uk. Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.