Armed police were dispatched to Cheetham Hill this afternoon after reports of an attempted knife-point robbery in Larch Gardens. The victim, a woman in her 60s, was left with a wound to her hand after a would-be robber tried to snatch her handbag. Greater Manchester Police have confirmed that while the incident occurred in a Sikh community area, it is not believed to have been racially or religiously motivated. The drama unfolded in this north Manchester suburb, prompting a swift police response.

Members of the public bravely intervened and detained the alleged suspect until officers arrived on the scene. A 40-year-old woman of Pakistani heritage was arrested on suspicion of assault, robbery, and possession of a bladed article. Police have confirmed that armed officers were deployed because they were the closest available unit, and the suspect was taken into custody within eight minutes of the emergency call. This rapid response demonstrates GMP's commitment to tackling violent crime across Greater Manchester.

In addition to the arrested suspect, police are seeking a second individual who may have been involved. This second suspect is believed to be a woman, and GMP has urged anyone with information about her identity or whereabouts to come forward immediately. Investigations are ongoing, and police are reviewing CCTV footage and speaking to witnesses to locate this person.

A GMP spokesperson said: “We are working to establish the full circumstances of the incident but do not believe this to be motivated by race or religion. We are supporting the victim who has gone to hospital for treatment to her hand injury and is understandably shaken.” The victim remains in hospital in a stable condition, receiving treatment for her hand injury.

Detective Superintendent Sarah Harris added: “Firstly, the victim is thankfully in a stable condition in hospital and is receiving treatment for an injury to her hand. We know this incident was witnessed by members of our local Sikh community, who we know will be shaken by it.”

“While we do not believe race or religion was a motive, it is still a shocking ordeal for the victim and those who witnessed it. We are supporting the victim and officers remain in the area.” Officers in the area are providing reassurance to the community.

“Officers made an arrest eight minutes after the call was made and I thank members of the public for helping to detain the suspect. The suspect remains in custody, and we are working to locate a potential second suspect.”

“I understand the wider worries expressed by all our communities regarding safety on our streets. In Greater Manchester, we continue to stress our priority is keeping all people safe by listening to communities and policing without fear or favour.”

While this incident took place in Cheetham Hill, it serves as a reminder for Oldham residents to stay vigilant. GMP has assured the public that they are committed to community safety across the region, and anyone with concerns is encouraged to contact their local officers. Information can be provided to GMP on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers. Oldham.News will continue to monitor this story and provide updates as necessary.