Armed police were called to an antiques event in Salford after three suspects allegedly brandished a BB gun and a baseball bat during an attempted robbery. The incident occurred at the Masonic Hall in Swinton on Wednesday, May 27, around 11:30 am.
Witnesses reported that three men, wearing balaclavas and all-black clothing, barged into the venue. One shouted 'don't move' while holding what appeared to be a gun, and another carried a baseball bat. Children present were reportedly in tears during the ordeal.
According to Greater Manchester Police, the suspects threatened attendees and demanded goods. An altercation broke out between one suspect and members of the public, during which a BB gun was recovered. One member of the public sustained a minor injury.
A witness described the scene: 'Three lads ran in. One with a gun, one with a baseball bat, and then one who waited in the hallway. The guy with the gun shouted 'don't anyone move'. There was a guy buying gold and silver who jumped up, grabbed the guy with the gun and then shouted out to his mate, who hit his head with the bat. Then I ran at them, picked up a chair and threw it at the lad. Then they ran out.'
Detective Inspector Paul Davies of GMP's Salford district commended the bravery of those who intervened. 'This was a terrifying incident... I want to commend the members of the public who acted incredibly bravely... We could easily have had more serious consequences, and I am glad that no-one was seriously injured.'
No arrests have been made, and police are appealing for information. Anyone with details is asked to contact police on 101 or via Live Chat at gmp.police.uk, quoting log 1334 of 27/05/26.
