Police are probing a total of six 'linked' arson attacks across Bolton that saw homes and a car targeted within the space of an hour.
Emergency services were called out to the incidents in the Great Lever and Farnworth areas between 12am and 1am. A number of fires were started at various locations, with cordons put in place on Plodder Lane, Green Lane, Crescent Road and Howcroft Street.
The Manchester Evening News understands the arson attacks followed a dispute between gangs in the area. Detectives are currently treating the fires as targeted, resulting in criminal damage of multiple properties and one vehicle.
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Two men aged 31 and 28 were subsequently arrested on suspicion of arson with intent to endanger life. Officers from Greater Manchester Police are continuing to investigate and hunt down other offenders.
In response to the incidents, section 60 stop and search powers have been enforced and will remain in place until midnight on Monday (April 17) in the nearby vicinity.
A police scene was pictured in place behind Howcroft Street on Sunday afternoon (April 16) with a visibly scorched car also seen being recovered as well as a melted wheelie bin.
Detective Chief Inspector Peter Morley of GMP Bolton’s district said: “Last night’s arson attacks across the Farnworth and Great Lever areas are shocking displays of violence and aggression and have put innocent members of the public at risk.
“Thankfully nobody was injured, and the incident is believed to be a targeted attack. These were reckless attacks and will not be tolerated in our communities in Bolton or Greater Manchester.
“Two males have already been arrested on suspicion of these attacks and we are continuing our extensive enquiries to locate any other possible suspects involved in these incidents. We remain committed to locating, arresting, and bringing justice to these offenders and the victims of these attacks.
“You will see officers located at the scenes and patrolling around the Farnworth and Great Lever areas on foot and in vehicles to provide reassurance to the local communities. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to our officers on patrol who can provide support and advice to you.
“If you have any information regarding the incidents that could help with our enquiries, please get in touch as soon as possible as your information, no matter how small it may seem, could be the missing piece we need to locate these offenders and bringing them to justice."
Anyone with any information or footage of this incident should contact us on 0161 856 5757 or 101 quoting log 3979 of 15/04/2023. Alternatively, you can report information anonymously to the independent charity Crimestoppers online or by calling 0800 555 111.
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