Gang of 30 youths attack police officers in Ashton

Police are appealing for witnesses after two officers were attacked with fireworks by a gang of youths on Sunday [26 August] night.

The pair were making enquiries on Burlington Street at around 8pm when they were set upon by a group of around 30 youths whilst sat in their car.

The gang began shouting abuse at the officers and fireworks were thrown at the car. Back-up was called and the offenders ran off as further patrols arrived.

It comes less than a week after a teenager threw a lit firework onto a packed bus on the nearby Katherine Street. As a result, a mother and her three-year-old son suffered minor injuries and had to be treated by paramedics.

Inspector Lee Derbyshire, of GMP’s Tameside district, said: “This shocking incident comes less than a week after a teenage boy threw a firework on a bus, injuring a mother and her child.

“The stupidity being shown by those responsible, who seem to think that it is ok to throw fireworks at or near other human beings, is unbelievable. If this continues then it is only a matter of time before somebody gets seriously injured so it is important that we put a stop to this now.

“If you believe you have information that can help us find those responsible, then I would urge you to please contact police immediately.”

Anybody with information should contact police on 0161 856 9350, quoting incident number 3151 of 25 August 2019. Alternatively, information can be passed on to the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.