Manchester Victoria stabbings treated as a terrorist attack

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins

Statement from Chief Constable Ian Hopkins in relation to the incident at Manchester Victoria on New Year's Eve.

Chief Constable Ian Hopkins said: “Last night we experienced a horrific attack on people out to simply enjoy the New Year’s Eve celebrations in Manchester. My thoughts are with the couple who are still being treated in hospital for their serious injuries and with the brave British Transport Police officer who was also stabbed during the attack.

“I know that the events last night will have affected many people and caused concern. That the incident happened so close to the scene of the terrorist attack on 22 May 2017 makes it even more dreadful.  Let me give you the details of what happened last night.

“Just before 9pm the British Transport Police officers at Victoria Train Station responded to a man armed with a knife and swiftly detained him. The officers acted with incredible bravery in tackling the armed attacker at the busy Metrolink station and ensured he was immediately detained. He remains in custody here in Manchester.

“We are treating this as a terrorist investigation which is being led by counter terrorism officers with support from Greater Manchester Police. They were working throughout the night to piece together the details of what happened and to identify the man who was arrested.

“This detailed work will continue and we are currently searching an address in the Cheetham Hill area of Manchester which is believed to be where the man had most recently been living. Our work will continue to ensure we get to the full facts of what happened and why it took place.

“I would ask anyone with footage to send it to FIB@gmp.police.uk and if they have any information that might assist the investigation to contact us on 0161 856 3400.”

• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/125131/update-stabbings-at-manchester-victoria
   
• www.rochdaleonline.co.uk/news-features/2/news-headlines/125130/three-people-including-a-police-officer-have-been-stabbed-at-manchester-victoria