Driver crashes into tree during chase as men launch machete attack in night of CHAOS
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) issued a 24-hour Section 60 order in Oldham following a night of violent incidents, including a car chase ending in a crash, a machete attack, and a large street disturbance involving weapons. Over 100 people gathered during the disorder, and three men were arrested. GMP has increased patrols and stop-and-search powers to address the situation.
Oldham erupted in violence Thursday night as a high-speed chase ended in a crash and machete-wielding attackers prowled the streets, prompting police to impose emergency stop-and-search powers across swaths of the town.
The chaos began around 6:05 pm when two SUVs raced along Lee Street. One vehicle slammed into a tree, and witnesses told police that several men armed with machetes then tried to assault the driver.
Four hours later, at 10:20 pm, officers responded to reports of a street disturbance “involving weapons” and arrived to find more than 100 people gathered amid pockets of ongoing disorder. Minutes afterward, a man in his 20s was assaulted on Roundthorn Road, where officers discovered a smashed taxi and the victim suffering minor injuries.
Police arrested three men—two in their 20s and one in his 50s—on suspicion of affray. All three remain in custody while detectives review CCTV and hunt additional suspects.
Greater Manchester Police immediately imposed a 24-hour Section 60 order, giving officers expanded stop-and-search authority across Glodwick, Clarksfield, Moorhey and surrounding streets until 2:59 am Saturday. Tactical Aid Unit officers carried out a dawn raid at 3 am, and a police helicopter circled overhead throughout the night.
Superintendent Cara Charlesworth said the order is “proportionate and necessary” to recover dangerous weapons and prevent further violence, adding that extra patrols will continue through the weekend.
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