Police respond to over 500 anti-social behaviour calls on bonfire night

Police officers responded to over 500 calls for service related to anti-social behaviour on bonfire night, making various arrests across Greater Manchester.

This year’s heightened patrols responded to 507 calls related to anti-social behaviour (ASB), of which 203 were linked to fireworks. The evening marked a significant increase in calls compared to the same day last month, when GMP received 363 ASB reports, with only 10 linked to fireworks.

To manage the influx, officers worked alongside the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) and other community partners as part of a coordinated operation targeting ASB hotspots.

The operation, held annually, aims to improve community safety through high-visibility patrols and proactive interventions.

In Rochdale and other parts of Greater Manchester, the increased police presence allowed most residents to celebrate the night safely. However, a few isolated incidents underscored the importance of these safety measures.

Superintendent John Paul Ruffle, head of prevention and ASB lead for GMP, highlighted the need for such initiatives during bonfire night.

He said, “Every year we understand bonfire night can come with increased incidents of ASB, and we are always prepared to deal with those proactively. We know that ASB can have a significant impact on our communities, and those trying to enjoy the festivities lawfully.

"We have been working particularly hard with partners to address issues that have been raised to us by members of the public as quickly and robustly as possible.”

One incident unfolded a few miles away in Gorton, where a group of around 30 youths reportedly set a fire on wasteland and threw fireworks and other projectiles at nearby homes and vehicles, causing disruption and property damage. Upon arrival, officers faced fireworks launched directly at them.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the police or public. Three males, aged between 16 and 18, were arrested in connection with this incident as local neighbourhood patrols worked to defuse the situation.

Elsewhere in Greater Manchester, Bolton saw a crowd of about 100 people on Boardman Street, with some attendees throwing fireworks. Officers quickly imposed a dispersal order, which succeeded in de-escalating the situation.

In Oldham town centre, a similar dispersal order was enforced after reports of individuals throwing fireworks in public areas.

Reflecting on the night’s incidents, Superintendent Ruffle stated, “What we saw on bonfire night from a small number of individuals across the evening is completely unacceptable.

"We work tremendously hard to protect and serve those in our local communities, and myself and my colleagues should not be going out to incidents having to deal with missiles being thrown at us.”

GMP has confirmed that multiple investigations are underway regarding the bonfire night incidents, and those responsible for ASB can expect further police follow-up.

He continued:“There are several ongoing investigations related to anti-social behaviour incidents that occurred on bonfire night, and those involved in incidents of disorder can expect a knock at the door over the coming days.

"We are committed to tackling ASB year-round, to ensure that our communities feel safe in their own homes and neighbourhoods.”