Imitation firearm recovered near Waterhead Park
Police recovered an imitation firearm near Waterhead Park in Oldham after two youths discovered it in a blue Smyths Toys bag. Specialist officers confirmed the weapon was not viable, but it could have been used for criminal purposes. Operation Vulcan is actively targeting high-harm offenders in the area, with over 55 arrests made so far. Authorities are urging the public to report any suspicious activity.
Imitation Firearm Found by Youths in Oldham Park
Two teenagers playing football at Waterhead Park discovered what they believed to be a firearm hidden in bushes near the basketball courts around 7pm Sunday evening.
The youths had been searching for their football when they spotted a distinctive blue Smyths Toys ‘bag for life’ containing what appeared to be a weapon. They immediately alerted Operation Vulcan officers who were patrolling the area.
Specialist armed officers rushed to the scene and confirmed the weapon was an imitation firearm, though police emphasized such items are frequently used in serious criminal activity to intimidate victims and escalate violence.
A cordon remains in place at the park as detectives continue their investigation into who placed the replica weapon in the popular recreational area.
Inspector Dan Cullum of Operation Vulcan praised the teenagers’ 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.”
The discovery comes amid heightened police activity in Oldham, with Operation Vulcan officers working alongside GMP’s Serious Organised Crime Group to target high-harm offenders following recent firearms disputes in the area. Authorities have made 55 arrests since the proactive operation began.
“Criminals know we are in the area, and that we’re executing regular warrants to root out the crime,” Inspector Cullum stated. “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.”
Police are appealing for witnesses who may have seen suspicious activity or individuals carrying the distinctive blue bag in the park over recent days. Anyone with information should call 101 quoting log 2653 of 04/05/25.
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