A racist yob hurled vile abuse at a group of men on board a train from Manchester, police have revealed. British Transport Police have launched an urgent investigation into what it called a 'hate crime' and are appealing for help from the public.
Police said the victims are yet to make contact with them, and urged them to do so. Witnesses or anyone with information are also now being encouraged to come forward.
The force said a witness who heard the man's racist comments towards the group challenged him, but was subjected to homophobic abuse. A man, 57, has been arrested and released on bail after questioning pending further police investigations. He has not been named and no further information has been revealed.
The service left Manchester Piccadilly for Sheffield on Tuesday, March 22. In a statement, BTP said: "Officers investigating a hate crime on-board a service between Manchester and Sheffield are appealing for further information.
"At just after 5.45pm on Tuesday 22 March, a man racially abused a group of men on board the train. A witness to the incident challenged the man on his behaviour and was then subjected to homophobic abuse. A 57-year-old man has since been arrested in connection and released pending further enquiries.
"The victims of the initial incident are yet to make contact with the police despite the efforts of officers to do so. They are appealing for the group of men to come forward to assist the investigation and be offered our support.
"The victims, or anyone with information, can contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 454 of 22/03/22. Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111." No further details - or a description - have been revealed.
