Armed police were among a huge team of officers that arrested a boy found riding a moped linked to an alleged crimewave across Stockport.
The boy was spotted wearing a balaclava and riding a moped without registration plates through Adswood at around 1.40pm yesterday (March 28). The vehicle was identified as stolen, and police believed it to be linked to 'several serious incidents' in Stockport over recent days.
Greater Manchester Police says those incidents include robbery and attempted robbery, where violence was 'used against victims by offenders armed with weapons'. A spokesperson for GMP Heatons and Reddish added: "Thankfully no serious injuries were caused, but these events have left the victims and witnesses understandably shaken.
"The investigation into these offences is moving at a fast pace in order to identify others involved in these acts. This disgraceful targeting of innocent members of the public going about their daily business will not be tolerated.
"Officers across Stockport, with assistance from specialist force resources, will continue to patrol the borough and will respond swiftly and robustly to any further acts of violence and disorder on our streets."
GMP says officers from its armed response unit joined cops from the Stockport Central neighbourhood team, the Stockport divisional priority team and local area response officers to bring the youngster to a halt. He was arrested on suspicion of offences including robbery, theft of a motor vehicle, going equipped [for stealing] and possession with intent to supply a class B drug.
The age of the boy has not yet been given. The Manchester Evening News has approached Greater Manchester Police for further comment.
Anyone with information in connection with the investigation is asked to contact GMP by calling 101, quoting log number 1306-28032022, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.