Arrests after large fight in Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens

Police have made arrests after a ‘large fight’ in Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens.

The city centre location – where many Bolton buses terminate – has been the subject of a number of police operations in recent months as city bosses try to tackle antisocial behaviour.

On Tuesday, June 25, Greater Manchester Police was called to a ‘large fight’ at the gardens.

One man was arrested at the scene and subsequently charged with assault and possession of an offensive weapon.

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The victim was taken to hospital but thankfully his injuries were not life changing or threatening, according to GMP.

An investigation was launched to trace those police believe to be responsible, and this morning, Operation Vulcan executed two warrants in Manchester.

Police say a 16-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, possession of an offensive weapon, section 18 assault, and possession of cannabis with intent to supply.

An 18-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of violent disorder, possession of an offensive weapon, and section 18 assault.

They remain in police custody for questioning.

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Detective constable Matt Bowling from Operation Vulcan said: “Behaviour like this is unacceptable and we will not allow people to take the law into their own hands or use violence to settle disputes in the city centre.

“Whilst we believe this incident was targeted, the fight took place in broad daylight and was witnessed by commuters and school children.

“We continue to have a have officers in Piccadilly Gardens, utilising a mix of visible police officers and specialist plain clothes officers, to ensure you can safely enjoy the area and to reinforce the message that criminals are not welcome.

“Since launching in September 2023, we have made over 200 arrests, including taking down an entire drugs line following a covert operation.

“Our work is far from over and we continue to work closely with Manchester City Council and crucial partner agencies to ensure Piccadilly Gardens becomes the safe and welcoming public space we know it can be.

“I hope the public is reassured by the speed of our investigation, whilst we believe we’ve apprehended several of those involved, we welcome any new information which may support our case.”

If you are concerned about crime in Piccadilly Gardens, please call us on 101. Always call 999 in an emergency. If you would prefer to remain anonymous, information can be shared with the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.

If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of Bolton. Please get in touch at jack.fifield@newsquest.co.uk.