Imitation firearm recovered in local park near Derker
Police recovered an imitation firearm in Waterhead Park, Oldham, after two youths discovered a blue Smyths Toys bag containing what they believed was a firearm. Specialist officers confirmed it was not a viable weapon but warned such items can escalate violence. Operation Vulcan is actively targeting high-harm offenders in the area, with over 55 arrests made so far. Authorities are appealing for community assistance to identify suspicious activity related to the incident.
Two youths discovered an imitation firearm hidden in bushes at Waterhead Park in Oldham on Sunday evening while searching for their football.
The boys, who had been playing on the basketball courts around 7pm, found the weapon inside a blue Smyths Toys ‘bag for life’ and immediately alerted Operation Vulcan officers who were patrolling nearby. Specialist armed officers confirmed the firearm was not viable, though police emphasized such replicas are frequently used in serious crimes to intimidate victims and escalate violence.
A police cordon remains in place at the park as detectives continue their investigation, with additional officers maintaining a visible presence in the area. The discovery comes amid ongoing firearms disputes in Oldham, with Operation Vulcan working alongside the Serious Organised Crime Group to target high-harm offenders.
Inspector Dan Cullum from Operation Vulcan stated the proactive operation has resulted in over 55 arrests so far: “Criminals know we are in the area, and that we’re executing regular warrants to root out the crime. We know that criminals can often store illicit items in public places as a way of keeping themselves away from the overt crime, and covering their tracks, but we will always seek to use all resources available to identify who is responsible.”
Cullum praised the youths for their quick thinking: “Fortunately, on this occasion it was not a viable firearm. However, if the circumstances were different, and had a child found a firearm, it could very well have had fatal consequences, so I’d like to thank those members of the public for approaching our officers this evening us as soon as they located it.”
Police are appealing for witnesses who may have seen suspicious activity or anyone carrying the distinctive blue bag in the park recently. Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log 2653 of 04/05/25.
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