Arson attacks in Rochdale

An investigation is under way after a series of arson attacks in Rochdale.

At about 3.30am on Sunday 7 June 2015 police were alerted to a fire at an outhouse on Derwent Street, which then spread to the adjacent garden. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service and police attended and discovered that the fire had damaged the garden and outhouse.

Immediately after a nearby wheelie bin was set on fire.

Shortly after this a fire was started at the back of the Aysha Mosque on Whitworth Road, whilst a 43-year-old man was inside. Fortunately no-one was hurt.

Police and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service have launched a joint enquiry and believe the incidents are linked.

Detective Constable Russ Clarke of Rochdale division said: “Fortunately nobody was hurt as a result of the fires, but this could have been a very different story.

“Due to its location, the initial fire on Derwent Street could easily have spread to the attached houses, and was about to do so, when one of the occupants saw what was happening and contacted the fire service.

“When the mosque was attacked somebody was inside and could have been seriously hurt. The intention behind these attacks is unclear and we are working to establish the circumstances.

"I ask that anybody with information about these incidents or anybody who saw anybody acting suspiciously in the areas at the times of the fires to contact police."

Anyone with information on this incident is asked to call police on 101 or independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.