COUNTER TERRORISM POLICE ON THE STREETS AFTER FOUR PEOPLE ARE INJURED DURING A STABBING IN MANCHESTER ARNDALE

Police have been called to a report of 'multiple' stabbings at Starbucks in Manchester Arndale this morning, it is said that four people were stabbed, one of which who is in a serious condition.

The Arndale was shut down and no one is was allowed to enter, police cordoned off the area and a video on social media shows a man being held to the floor whilst being handcuffed outside the Arndale on church street by one officer whilst another holds what looks to be pointing a taser at him. 

Police have now confirmed they initially arrested a man in his 40's on suspicion of serious assault. 

He was taken into custody for questioning and has now been subsequently re-arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation and instigation of an act of terrorism.

Shops were evacuated within the Arndale and armed police were sighted patrolling the area.

GMP have now released the following statement,

Quote

Specialist officers are continuing to respond to an incident at the Arndale shopping centre in Manchester city centre.

We can confirm that five people have been stabbed and taken to hospital.

In these early stages we are keeping an open mind about the motivation of this terrible incident and the circumstances as we know them.

Given the location of the incident and its nature officers from Counter Terrorism Police North West are leading the investigation as we determine the circumstances.

A man in his 40s – who was arrested at the scene on suspicion of serious assault – remains in custody for questioning.

 

People are being advised to avoid the area whilst emergency services deal with the situation.

Tram services are also disrupted around Exchange Square.

Anyone with information should call police on 101 quoting incident number 1055 of 11/10/2019, or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.