FOUR MEN ARRESTED AFTER SALFORD EXPLOSIONS

Update: All four men have been bailed pending further enquiries.

It’s believed that both incidents involved industrial type fireworks, however forensic testing is still ongoing to confirm this.  

Yesterday at around 7pm, officers saw a Lexus car on Stockport Road, which was thought to be stolen and linked to the explosions.

Officers followed the Lexus for a short time before it stopped and reversed, ramming the police car near to Regent Road in Salford.

The occupants of the car abandoned the vehicle and attempted to escape on foot but officers soon caught up with them and detained them.

The men are aged 20, 24, 24, and 29 and all remain in custody on suspicion of possession of explosives.

One of the 24-year-olds has also been arrested on suspicion of affray and supplying a controlled substance. The 29-year-old has also been arrested on suspicion of burglary and possession of an offensive weapon.

Superintendent Mark Kenny of GMP’s Salford borough, said:

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“Although we have made arrests, the investigation is very much ongoing.

“The safety of the people of Salford is our priority and we have ensured that the investigation is moving forward as quickly as possible. This has included dedicated detectives and support from the fire service.

“While many people may think we are talking about the kind of fireworks you would purchase for bonfire night, we are not.

“These are extremely dangerous devices, which would cause serious injury to anyone nearby when they are ignited.

“I would urge members of the public to come forward if they have any information to support this investigation or assist in identifying where the explosive devices originated from.

“We are working closely with Salford City Council regarding the legal and safe supply of fireworks.

“Help us protect the safety of the people of Salford and bring those responsible for these serious attacks by calling us with any information you have.”

 

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting reference number 33 of 12/09/17 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.