Eighth arrest in Greater Manchester HMO vandalism probe

Greater Manchester Police have made another arrest in the investigation into a series of vandalism and criminal damage attacks on houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) across the region. The latest detention brings the total number of people held in connection with the probe to eight.

Detectives have been examining dozens of suspected incidents reported in Salford, Tameside, Bolton, Rochdale, Wigan and Stockport this month. The force previously said it had received 46 reports of criminal damage to properties that are either HMOs or are being mistaken for HMOs since October 5.

Latest Arrest and Previous Detentions

On Monday morning, a 29-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to commit criminal damage in connection with the attacks. In some incidents, homes had the words 'no HMO' sprayed onto their front doors, while cars were smashed and windows broken.

The arrest follows that of far-right influencer Ashlea Simon at Manchester Airport last week. The former co-leader of Britain First, now a figurehead of the ethno-nationalist patriot group All For England, said on social media that she had been arrested on October 25 after returning from a family holiday.

Police Focus on Exploitation of Vulnerable People

Chief Supt Marcus Noden previously said police believe vulnerable people, including children, have been exploited and paid to damage buildings. He said: "Our relentless pursuit of those causing or facilitating this recent spate of damage is not letting up as we continue to explore multiple lines of enquiry."

"One area of focus continues to be our belief that vulnerable people - including children - are being exploited and paid to damage buildings. If you know anything that could help us, we're continuing to urge you to come forward and speak to us."

GMP confirmed a 37-year-old woman had been arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to cause criminal damage in connection with an investigation in Salford. She was later released on bail.