‘Shameful destruction’ across Greater Manchester

Crowds gather on Oldham Street during Manchester’s looting shame. Picture courtesy Press Association

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Over 100 people have been arrested following riots in Manchester and Salford over night. Hundreds of rioters descended on the city centre and Salford, where stores had their windows smashed and were looted for goods including trainers, jewellery and flat screen televisions.

Those arrested are between 15 and 58 years old and the vast majority were arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.

105 arrests were made in the North Manchester Division, mainly the city centre, three in Salford, three in Bury, one in Bolton and one in South Manchester.

Ten officers were injured in the line of duty, one of which suffered a suspected broken ankle. 

Assistant Chief Constable Garry Shewan described the scenes from last night as “shameful destruction” and some of the worst he has “ever witnessed as a police officer.” 

ACC Garry Shewan, said: “What we have seen are serious and unprecedented levels of violence and criminality on Greater Manchester's streets. These are shameful actions from criminals who have attacked our cities.

"Make no mistake - these people cannot hide behind any kind of political or moral banner to justify their actions. They are opportunists who have no respect for the law or our fine city.

"They appear to have seen the chance to get away with criminal behaviour on a grand scale but I can assure them they will not get away with this.

"We know who you are and we are coming to get you.”

He continued: "I also want to stress the need for people not to get caught up in the disorder. We arrested a number of people last night who picked up items that had been dropped by the looters.

"If you pick up looted goods you are just as bad as the criminals who broke into the shop. Either leave the items where they are, return them to the shop or call the police - you do not want to spend hours in our cells in the mistaken belief you can take discarded stolen goods.

"It is also important that people know Manchester remains open for business this morning. I understand it is a worrying time for businesses, residents and shoppers but we, as a city, will rise above this and continue to go about our business.

"The focus today is on getting the communities of Greater Manchester and Salford back to normality. Both councils are organising clean up of their respective cities. Greater Manchester Police will be supporting the businesses and residents who have been affected and bring those involved to justice.

"Greater Manchester Police will be ready today to robustly respond to any further incidents of disorder while continuing to investigate what happened yesterday."