Masked men held woman at knife point in Stalybridge

Three masked men held a woman at knife point in front of a young boy during a "horrendous" burglary in Stalybridge on Saturday night (April 25). 

It happened at a property on Mottram Rise, off Mottram Road, shortly before 10.10pm. 

Three men, wearing balaclavas and brandishing knives and sledgehammers, forced entry by smashing through a glass door.

They demanded cash and other items from the 26-year-old homeowner while making threats.

The men fled with a significant amount of cash and two Rolex watches, having also caused significant damage to the property.

One of the men - who was wielding a large black and yellow sledgehammer - is described as approximately 6ft 2ins tall with a broad muscular frame and hazel coloured eyes. 

Another is described as approximately 5ft 2ins tall with brown eyes.

All three men spoke with local accents and wore dark clothing.

Greater Manchester Police say no arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing.

Detective Constable Alison Haxby, of GMP's Tameside district, said: "We have launched a full investigation into this horrendous aggravated burglary and we’re doing everything we can to trace those responsible.

"Home is the place where you should feel safe and no-one should have to go through what this woman has. There was also a young boy present at the time of the robbery and we are supporting them as we progress with enquiries.

"I have no doubt that someone knows who these offenders are and I would urge them or anyone who witnessed any suspicious behaviour in the area last night to get in touch with us as soon as possible." 

Anyone with information should call police on 0161 856 9262 or 101, quoting incident number 3238 of 25/04/2020.

Reports can also be made via the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.