The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) has confirmed it is investigating a non-fatal police shooting in Whitefield, a community that lies just a few miles from Oldham, after a suspect allegedly drove a car at officers during an attempted stop. The incident occurred on Bury New Road on Friday afternoon (May 22) and has prompted a full independent investigation.

Greater Manchester Police have stated that at around 3pm, officers attempted to pull over a car on Bury New Road. However, the car failed to stop and instead drove directly at the officers to get away, according to a force spokesperson. Armed officers were subsequently deployed to the scene, and during the confrontation, the driver suffered a gunshot wound to his arm. The injury is not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing. No police officers or members of the public were injured during the incident.

A 20-year-old white British man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of Class A drugs. He has been taken into police custody.

As is standard procedure for any incident involving police use of firearms, the matter was immediately referred to the IOPC for independent scrutiny. The IOPC has now confirmed that an independent investigation has been launched, and investigators were sent to the scene on Friday to begin gathering evidence. Forensic teams were also present at the scene on Bury New Road, Whitefield, to assist with evidence collection.

An IOPC spokesperson said: "We are independently investigating following a non-fatal police shooting in Whitefield. While firearms incidents like this are, thankfully, rare, it is important for there to be independent scrutiny to fully understand what has happened. IOPC investigators attended the scene and to the police post-incident procedures to begin gathering evidence."

Detective Superintendent Joe Harrop from GMP's Serious Crime Division issued a statement to address community concerns. He said: "We know people in the area will be concerned by what has happened and the visible increase in police officers in the local area as our investigations continue. Thankfully no members of the wider public, or officers were harmed in the incident this afternoon and we thank people for their patience while we remain at the scene. Should anyone have any concerns, please speak with our officers who are out in the local area, they are there to listen and assist where possible."

For Oldham residents, this incident in nearby Whitefield serves as a reminder of the risks involved in policing drug crime in the region. GMP has emphasised that firearms incidents are extremely rare, and the IOPC investigation will provide a thorough and independent review of the circumstances.

Bury New Road, a key route connecting Whitefield to Oldham and other parts of Greater Manchester, was closed for several hours on Friday evening as forensic teams processed the scene. This closure may have caused some disruption for commuters from Oldham, but traffic has since resumed to normal. Police continue to have a visible presence in the area to offer reassurance.

The IOPC investigation is ongoing, and further updates may be provided as the process continues. Anyone with information or concerns is encouraged to approach officers in the area or contact GMP directly.