Greater Manchester Police (GMP) descended on Middleton town centre after dozens of youths gathered and reportedly hurled fireworks at traffic. Multiple witnesses reported seeing fireworks being let off towards vehicles in the area on Tuesday evening (September 30).
A large group of youngsters was seen gathered around Wood Street and close to Tesco and McDonald's. GMP confirmed it was called out to reports of anti-social behaviour.
Dispersal order issued
A 12-hour dispersal order was issued at 6pm, giving officers powers to move people away from Middleton town centre. The order was put in place for the evening.
A GMP spokesperson said: "Officers received reports of a group of youths engaging in anti-social behaviour around the Middleton town centre area last night (September 29). This included reports of fireworks being used in a disruptive manner and being let off near vehicles.
"Officers deployed to the area and a dispersal order was put in place for the evening, granting officers the powers to move people away from the centre. Thankfully, no injuries were reported. Local teams will continue to monitor the town centre through proactive patrols and use the appropriate powers to prevent criminality."
Previous incident
The incident came less than 24 hours after two teenage boys were rushed to hospital following a crash involving an e-bike and a car on Windermere Road, near Wood Street. A man in his 20s was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by driving with due care and attention. GMP has been approached for an update on the investigation.
