Police have released a statement after an incident in Bolton and said rumours of a shooting have 'not yet been confirmed' while urging people not to speculate. 

Briercliffe Road in Deane has been taped off since Saturday afternoon with police officers, a specialist search unit, and the tactical aid unit present.

Police were called to reports of 'disorder' on Briercliffe Road at 3pm on Saturday and officers remain at the scene.

It is understood a number of people were believed to be involved in the disorder and had fled the scene prior to police attendance.

No injuries have been reported to emergency services as a result of this disorder and no arrests have been made at present.

Officers remain at the scene, conducting additional investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the event and to locate those involved.

Detective Sergeant Paul Warburton of GMP’s Bolton CID said: "We understand that the community are worried about this incident, and I want to assure everyone that we are doing everything within our power to reassure and keep the local community safe.

"While there are circulating rumours of a potential firearms discharge, it's important to note that this has not yet been confirmed. I urge members of the public not to speculate on yesterday’s events and come forward if they know anything at all which could help our investigation.

“We have deployed extra resources and visible patrols. They are here to provide additional reassurance to the local community and are available to answer any questions, offer advice, and provide reassurance during this time.

“We urge anyone with information about this incident, including CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage, to come forward and share it with us. Your cooperation is crucial as we work to piece together the full and factual details of this incident and locate those involved."

Residents reported hearing and seeing the police helicopter flying above the area on Saturday afternoon. 

On Sunday morning, police said that no one can access Briercliffe Road, apart from residents, while investigations are carried out.

The Bolton News: Police at the scenePolice at the scene (Image: NQ)

A resident in the area, who does not want to be named, said: “I was going out at around 2.30pm or 2.45pm (on Saturday) when I heard arguing on Briercliffe Road and I saw a car speed off. I heard the helicopter hovering above too.

“I went out in my car and came back at half five to lots of police and then they put the cordon in place.

“I see police in the area quite frequently and I’ve lived here since 2007.”

If you have any information regarding this incident or suspicious circumstances before or after this incident in the surrounding area, please call GMP directly by calling 101 quoting log 1690 of 30/12/2023.

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