HIGH-RISK MISSING PERSON FOUND SAFE AND WELL BY OPERATION VULCAN, ON THEIR FIRST OFFICIAL DAY IN PICCADILLY GARDENS

A high-risk missing person has been found safe and well by Operation Vulcan officers, on their first official day in Piccadilly Gardens.

The elderly man was reported missing by his family last week and officers have been retracing his known steps ever since. After finding CCTV of him in Huddersfield Train Station, the team launched a national appeal – also brining other police forces and partner agencies on board to assist.

Following the operation's success in Cheetham Hill, Vulcan was rolled out into Piccadilly at an official launch event earlier today. Operation Vulcan Piccadilly will see the high-visibility presence of GMP and partner agencies to create a safer community for people to live, work, and socialise.  

Earlier today (Friday 22 September 2023), a member of the public reported a sighting to an Operation Vulcan officer in Piccadilly Gardens. The officer found the man in a nearby premises and contacted the investigation team so they could make arrangements for him to return home.  

Senior Investigating Officer - Detective Chief Inspector Matthew Walker, of GMP's Oldham district, said: "This is the result we are always hoping for when we open investigations into missing persons. We are all relieved that Ronald is safe and well and that he has been reunited with his loved ones, who were understandably incredibly concerned.

"We are really thankful to the members of the public who shared our appeal, and partner agencies who assisted us with our enquiries. My particular thanks goes to Constance Dane Hullett, who has worked tirelessly since the call came in that Ronald was missing, in investigating different lines of enquiry and for dedicating long days to trying to find him.

"It is a testament to Operation Vulcan that, on their first official day in Piccadilly Gardens, they have been noticed by members of the public – enabling them to help us to bring this investigation to the best conclusion."