Police are investigating after two people were assaulted in ‘targeted’ city centre attacks within hours.
A 19-year-old man was taken to hospital with injuries after reports of an assault at the Arndale at around 7.30pm on Friday, February 23.
No arrests have been made, and police are appealing to the public for information.
Detective Inspector Natalie McDonald said: “This was a violent assault that took occurred in a public place early yesterday evening.
“Thankfully the victim was not seriously harmed but we absolutely will not tolerate such violent behaviour and are carrying out extensive enquiries to trace the person responsible and hold them to account.
“We are treating this as a targeted incident and are now appealing to anyone who may have witnessed this or who has relevant information - including footage - to share it with the police.
“You can make a report by calling 0161 856 4436 quoting log number 2750 of 23/02/2024.”
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Just hours later, at 1.50am, police were again called to another assault.
Police and ambulance crews found a 20-year-old man injured on Withy Grove in the city centre.
He was taken to hospital with serious injuries, though police say they are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing.
An 18-year-old man has been arrested and remanded into custody for questioning.
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Detective Inspector Natalie McDonald said: “This shocking attack left a young man seriously injured and our officers have moved quickly to find the suspect.
“We are still working to establish the full circumstances but it is believed to have been a targeted attack with no wider risk to the public.
“We are now appealing to anyone with information or footage related to this incident - including CCTV, mobile or dashcam - to make a report to police to aid our enquiries.
“You can do so by calling 0161 856 4436 quoting incident number 240 of 24/02/2024.”
In both cases, the independent charity Crimestoppers can be called anonymously on 0800 555 111.
If you have a story, I cover the whole borough of Bolton. Please get in touch at jack.fifield@newsquest.co.uk.
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