Greater Manchester Police have made six arrests following a shooting incident in Manchester's Gay Village that left a man with a leg injury. The disturbance occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning, prompting a significant police response in the city centre.
Police Response to Early Morning Disturbance
Officers from Greater Manchester Police were called to Richmond Street, located near Manchester's renowned Gay Village district, at approximately 5am on Saturday, January 24th, 2026. The emergency call followed reports of a serious disturbance in the area, with initial information suggesting possible firearms involvement.
Victim Receives Hospital Treatment
Upon arrival at the scene, police discovered an adult male suffering from what appeared to be a gunshot wound to his leg. The victim was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Police authorities have confirmed that the man's injuries are considered non-life threatening and non-life changing, indicating he is expected to make a full recovery.
Multiple Arrests Made in Connection with Incident
Six men, all aged between 23 and 26 years old, have been arrested on suspicion of affray and various firearms offences. All suspects remain in police custody for questioning as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The arrests followed a swift police operation that resulted in the detention of all six individuals believed to be involved in the incident.
Firearm Recovered from Scene
Superintendent Stephen Wiggins of GMP's City of Manchester division confirmed that officers have recovered a firearm from the address where the incident occurred. He stated: "Our officers acted swiftly, detaining six individuals we believe were involved, and a firearm has been recovered from the address."
The police superintendent addressed public concerns about the incident, noting: "This will undoubtedly be a concerning incident for anyone living or working in the city centre and across Greater Manchester." He emphasised that authorities believe this was a targeted incident and assured the public that there is no wider threat to community safety.
Ongoing Police Investigation
Forensic teams remain active at the scene on Richmond Street, conducting detailed examinations to gather evidence. Armed police officers continue to maintain a presence in the area, with some apartments on the street being searched as part of the ongoing investigation.
Superintendent Wiggins provided context about Greater Manchester Police's approach to gun crime, revealing: "Since 2023, our Serious Crime Division has removed 168 firearms from our streets, showing how seriously we take gun crime." This statement highlights the force's continued efforts to combat firearms offences across the region.
Advice for Local Residents
Police have advised residents and members of the public to avoid the Richmond Street area while investigative work continues. The ongoing police operation includes thorough searches of properties and detailed forensic analysis at the scene of the incident.
Investigations into the shooting remain active, with police working to establish the full sequence of events that led to the disturbance and subsequent firearm discharge. The six arrested men continue to be questioned by detectives as authorities work to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the early morning incident in Manchester's city centre.
