Greater Manchester Police have released footage showing youths launching fireworks at houses and cars on an estate in Tameside, as officers arrested 17 people and seized more than 600 fireworks across Greater Manchester on Bonfire Night.
Arrests and seizures in Tameside
Eight of the arrests were made in Tameside after officers received reports of youths setting off fireworks in Millennium Green Park in Ashton-under-Lyne. The group was tracked using police drones before being arrested at a nearby shop on suspicion of affray.
Officers also carried out more than 160 stop and searches and used dispersal powers to prevent further disorder in hotspot areas, GMP said.
Operation Treacle response
Chief Superintendent Nicola Spragg, the gold commander for the operation, said a "small minority" of people chose to "misuse fireworks and engage in anti-social behaviour, causing fear, distress and even firing fireworks at emergency service vehicles" on Bonfire Night.
She said: "Through Operation Treacle, officers and partner across Greater Manchester are carrying out targeted patrols, responding swiftly to incidents, and taking positive action against those who break the law or put members of the public at risk.
"The 17 arrests made last night demonstrate our commitment to keeping people safe and ensuring everyone can enjoy Bonfire Night without fear of disorder or intimidation.
"We will continue to have officers out in our neighbourhoods throughout the weekend and beyond, so that people can feel safe, spend time with their loved ones and enjoy the celebrations. We would also urge anyone witnessing anti-social behaviour or the misuse of fireworks to report it to us so we can take action."
Fire service involvement
The operation has also involved Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), with firefighters and police working together to respond to incidents throughout the night.
Paul Fearnhead, Area Manager (Head of Training), said firefighters had attended a "significant number" of Bonfire Night-related incidents across Greater Manchester, including several deliberate fires.
He said: "It is unacceptable that emergency responders encountered anti-social behaviour while carrying out their duties and working to protect local communities.
"Any behaviour that puts members of the public or emergency service personnel at risk is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
"We welcome the arrests made by police following last night’s activity and will continue working with partners to reduce risk and keep our communities safe."
Legal warnings and reporting
GMP said it is a criminal offence for anyone under the age of 18 to possess fireworks in a public place. It is also illegal to throw or set off fireworks in the street, or use them in a way that causes danger, harassment, alarm, distress or intimidation.
Police said neighbourhood teams would remain visible across Greater Manchester throughout the weekend. Anyone who witnesses anti-social behaviour or the misuse of fireworks can report it to police via 101 or Live Chat. In an emergency, call 999.
