Police have launched an investigation after a man attacked cars and made threats in the car park of Oldham Police Station.
Just before 10pm on Tuesday night (4 January), an officer who was about to go on patrol spotted that a man had entered the car park.
Once inside, he ran towards the vehicle the officer was sat in and attacked it whilst threatening him.
The man, who police say is 31-years-old, was then tasered to “ensure the safety of the officer and the wider public.”
He was arrested on suspicion of criminal damage, assault of a police officer and being found on enclosed premises.
Later, a car that was parked close to the police station was thought to have suspicious items inside. Police put a large cordon across parts of the town centre while it was inspected by specialist officers, with it being found not to contain any items of concern.
Due to the nature of the incident and initial enquiries conducted so far, officers from Counter Terrorism Policing North West were made aware of the incident and have since further arrested the suspect on suspicion of section 41 of the Terrorism Act. He is currently being questioned in custody.
This is believed to be an isolated incident and there is not thought to be a threat to the wider public at this time.
Chief Superintendent Chris Bowen, commander for our Oldham district, said: "Last night our officers showed immense bravery and quick-thinking by detaining a man so swiftly after threats were being made and a vehicle was attacked as it was about to go on patrol.
"Thankfully, despite being understandably shaken, the officers didn’t sustain any physical injuries and we are doing what we can to support them after this incident.
"Due to suspicions raised based on enquiries made so far, our colleagues from Counter Terrorism Policing North West have subsequently arrested the suspect and are now questioning him under the Terrorism Act.
"While this will cause understandable - and shared - shock and concern in the community, I want to make it clear that there is nothing to so far suggest there is any wider threat to the public, and our officers will continue to be on the front line doing all we can to keep the streets of Oldham safe.
"As ever, anyone with suspicions or concerns should report it to us via their local neighbourhood police team, via our website, or via 101. Always call 999 in an emergency."
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