Human remains were discovered by demolition workers in a burnt out mill, as police declared a "major incident".
Greater Manchester Police (GMP) and the fire service rushed to Bismark House Mill on Bower Street, Oldham, on Saturday, May 7, following reports of a fire. It took emergency services over four days to extinguish the fire and at the time, it was not believed that anyone was inside the mill.
GMP then received a report on Thursday, July 21, that four Vietnamese nationals were missing and may have been involved in a fire. Two days later demolition workers at Bismark House Mill found human remains on the premises.
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Detectives now believe the remains could belong to the Vietnamese nationals, and are making further enquiries.
GMP Assistant Chief Constable Rob Potts said: "Victims and the bereaved are at the forefront of our investigations into deaths. As such, whilst work is ongoing to confirm the identity of the deceased, we are liaising with partner agencies to ensure potential family members in Vietnam are fully informed and supported.
“This news will understandably impact both the local and wider community. I can reassure members of the public that this has been declared a major incident to ensure both GMP and partner agencies respond to this incident in the most effective way. Also, that specialist officers are following every line of enquiry to confirm the identity of the deceased, if anyone else was inside the mill during the fire, and the full circumstances surrounding that fire.
"Any criminal offences identified as part of their investigation will be immediately and appropriately progressed. On behalf of the investigation team, I appeal to anyone with information to contact them directly or, anonymously, via Crimestoppers.
"They’re particularly interested in hearing from anyone who knows how the building was being used in the lead up to the seventh of May or who has information about the fire itself."
Due to previous contact relating to the fire and missing persons, this incident has been referred to GMP’s Professional Standards Branch for review. Anyone with information should submit it via the Major Incident Public Portal:
https://mipp.police.uk/operation/NATIONAL22Y07-PO1
Anyone who does not have access to internet, should make contact via 0161 856 0055 quoting Operation Logan. Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity - Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Anyone who is concerned about a missing loved one is advised to contact the Casualty Bureau. UK callers: 0800 051 4675. International callers: 020 459 4500
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