Police in Oldham are currently investigating a series of robberies in the Shaw and Failsworth area after receiving multiple reports from victims. A total of seven incidents have been reported to the police between 12 and 28 June.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the robbers are targeting victims’ vehicles, using threats of violence to gain access. In some cases, the suspects have brandished bladed articles to intimidate the drivers. Fortunately, no injuries have been reported thus far.
On Friday, 30 June, a car was reported stolen from Bishops Park Car Park on Ship Lane in Delph. The victim stated that he was sitting in his parked car when a group of approximately five unidentified men approached him. The assailants forcibly removed the car keys from the ignition and threatened the victim until he exited the vehicle.
Detectives are treating these incidents as connected and are appealing to the public for information that can assist their investigation. Detective Chief Inspector Lindsay Booth of GMP’s Oldham district emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant, especially when walking to one’s car at night in poorly lit areas where there is no CCTV coverage.
“We are now in a position in our investigation where we can appeal to the public to help us identify those responsible,” said Detective Chief Inspector Booth. She urged anyone who may have witnessed a group of men wearing balaclavas in the Shaw area of Oldham or anyone with dash-cam or mobile footage to come forward. Any information, no matter how seemingly insignificant, could be crucial to the investigation.
Individuals with information or footage related to the robberies are encouraged to contact the police at 0161 856 64521 or 101, quoting log 9 of 01/07/2023. Information can also be provided through the LiveChat function on the Greater Manchester Police website (www.gmp.police.uk) or anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.
