GMP understand the public's 'uncertainty and worry' as potential for unrest continues

Greater Manchester Police have issued a statement aimed at local communities and concerned members of the public as tensions remain high across the region, including in Oldham.

The statement from GMP this afternoon (Wednesday) comes as Oldham MP Jim McMahon told BBC Breakfast that a 'list' of targeted premises has reportedly been shared on Telegram.

The list appears to have been shared by far-right groups with a view to target organisations that assist migrants, refugees and asylum seekers.

Oldham does appear on that list, but reports of a protest remain unconfirmed.

GMP stated that there is "a lot of misinformation online" and that the police response remains the same as usual - with the resources to respond "if needs be".

The full GMP statement, issued just after 2pm today, read: "We understand the uncertainty and worry that people are feeling about current tension, much of which is being fuelled by the widespread sharing of misinformation online which is sometimes being created with the purpose of creating fear and inciting intolerable hate.

"Our advice to communities is to remain calm and to try to go about your every-day life.

"GMP continues to monitor the intelligence to ensure we can respond effectively to any incidents of disorder.

"And, if we believe there needs to be specific information about anything emerging we will tell people and offer advice. 

"We are heavily resourced, and we have specialist officers and staff who are working around the clock to tackle these issues and ensure our communities are supported.

"We are speaking to community leaders and elected representatives regularly to make sure they are appraised of all planned protests known to GMP. 

"People living safely and peacefully, do not deserve to be frightened: we are here to protect you, and we will use all resources and capabilities to do so.

"Our message is clear: there is no place for hate in Greater Manchester.

"If you come here to willingly participate in disorder and crime, we will be at your door, ensuring you answer for your crimes.

"We will police without fear or favour and use all resources and powers available to ensure those involved in this disgraceful behaviour are dealt with robustly.

"This has been demonstrated with our relentless pursuit of offenders, many of whom have been arrested not only in Greater Manchester, but with the support of police colleagues across the UK and we have made crucial arrests in West Yorkshire and Lancashire.

"To date, we have made 26 arrests for a variety of offences including assault, violent disorder, possession of weapons, and 20 have been charged.

"There is work to be done, and we will not relent until we have systematically located and dealt with all those responsible.

"We ask that you remain vigilant.

"If you see something, or hear something, that does not feel right, report it to us so we can act.

"All information and reports will be handled with the utmost severity and sensitivity.

"If you would prefer to remain anonymous, information can be shared anonymously with the independent charity Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111.

"We don’t need to know who you are; we just need your information and concerns.

"These are challenging times, but we are immensely proud to see the majority of our residents standing together and condemning this unacceptable disorder.

"Your unwavering support has not gone unnoticed."

The Mayor of Oldham, Cllr Zahid Chauhan, has also urged calm amongst Oldham's communities.

In a post on X, formerly Twitter, he said: "I urge all residents to remain calm and continue with your daily lives.

"Do not let rumours and misinformation disrupt your way of living.

"Have faith in our law enforcement agencies and promptly report any incidents or concerns to the police.

"It is crucial that we all come together to maintain peace and DO NOT aggravate the situation further.

"Let's support each other during these challenging times."

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