A dispersal order needed to be put in place by police in Oldham town centre last night (Tuesday, November 5) after fireworks were set off in the town centre.
Following the Family Firework Evening, which saw a dazzling fireworks display above the town centre, loud bangs could be heard in the town centre.
Now, Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have said they put a dispersal order in place following the reports of fireworks being set off and thrown.
READ MORE: Oldham night sky lit up with fireworks on Bonfire Night
In total, GMP made 11 arrests last night across Greater Manchester for a range of offences including violent disorder to drugs and possession of a bladed article.
Police responded to 507 calls for service around anti-social behaviour, of which 203 were firework related.
This saw a major increase compared to the same day last month (October 5), when police were called out to 363 anti-social behaviour incidents with just 10 of those jobs being firework related.
Remember, remember the 5th of November! 🎆✨
— Oldham Council (@OldhamCouncil) November 6, 2024
Our Family Fireworks night was packed with amazing moments. Check out our full photo album on our Facebook page: https://t.co/lvPfVgyUgQ? ⚡️#LoveOldham #BonfireNight #FireworksDisplay pic.twitter.com/W6cRM5z1iy
One incident saw GMP called to disorder on Vine Street, Gorton, where a large group of around 30 youths had reportedly ignited a fire on a waste land and were throwing fireworks and projectiles at houses and vehicles, resulting in disruption and property damage.
When police arrived, officers were targeted with fireworks as missiles, although no injuries were sustained.
Three males, aged between 16 and 18, were arrested.
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Superintendent John Paul Ruffle, head of prevention and force lead for anti-social behaviour, said: “Every year we understand bonfire night can come with increased incidents of ASB, and we are always prepared to deal with those proactively.
“We know that ASB can have a significant impact on our communities, and those trying to enjoy the festivities lawfully. We have been working particularly hard with partners to address issues that have been raised to us by members of the public as quickly and robustly as possible.
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“What we saw on bonfire night from a small number of individuals across the evening is completely unacceptable. We work tremendously hard to protect and serve those in our local communities and myself and my colleagues should not be going out to incidents having to deal with missiles being thrown at us.
“There are several ongoing investigations related to anti-social behaviour incidents that occurred on Bonfire night, and those involved in incidents of disorder can expect a knock at the door over the coming days.
“We are committed to tackling ASB year-round, to ensure that our communities feel safe in their own homes and neighbourhoods.”
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