A man has been arrested on suspicion of a biological weapons offence after potentially hazardous chemicals were discovered in a Salford flat, with Greater Manchester Police reassuring Oldham residents that there is no wider risk to the public.

The force was called to the property on Rowland Street just after 8:30pm on Sunday 31 May 2026, following a concern for welfare report from ambulance services. When officers arrived, they found a substance believed to be potentially hazardous and immediately removed it.

No injuries have been reported in connection with the incident. A 28-year-old white British man was initially assessed under the Mental Health Act and has since been arrested on suspicion of an offence under the Biological Weapons Act. He remains in custody for questioning.

Emergency service staff have been operating in and around the area, and residents have reported sightings of multiple personnel in the vicinity last week. Greater Manchester Police have been working alongside Salford City Council, North West Ambulance Service (NWAS), and the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) as part of the response.

Superintendent Dave Henthorne, who has been leading the investigation, said: "We understand that incidents of this nature may cause concern to our communities. Emergency services have been working in partnership to assess the scene and every step has been taken to limit any risk to the wider community.

"The substances found were analysed and have been deemed as potentially hazardous. They have been safely and securely removed from the property. There is believed to be no wider risk to the public, and we'd like to thank the local community for their patience whilst we deal with this incident.

"Officers will remain on the scene as we continue with our investigation, so if you have any concerns, please feel free to speak to them."

While the incident occurred in neighbouring Salford, Oldham readers may be reassured by the swift and coordinated response from emergency services across Greater Manchester. The police have emphasised that there is no evidence of any threat extending beyond the immediate location.

Local authorities have confirmed that the situation is contained, and residents in both Salford and the wider region, including Oldham, should not be alarmed. The partnership working between GMP, councils, and emergency services highlights the robustness of regional safety measures.

Anyone with concerns is encouraged to contact police or speak to officers at the scene. The investigation remains ongoing, and further updates will be provided as necessary.