Manchester Chief Constable Vows Justice After Horrific Arena Attack
Chief Constable Ian Hopkins has spoken out following the devastating attack at Manchester Arena – calling it the “most horrific incident” Greater Manchester has ever faced.
22 Dead, 59 Injured in Terror Blast
Hopkins confirmed 22 victims have lost their lives, with 59 more injured across eight local hospitals. Families and young concert-goers attending the Ariana Grande show were caught up in the chaos.
“Our thoughts are with those 22 victims that we now know have died, the 59 people who have been injured and their loved ones. We continue to do all we can to support them.”
Manhunt Underway as Police Hunt Possible Network
The explosion was reported just after 10:30pm. Over 240 emergency calls flooded in as armed officers and more than 400 police personnel scrambled to the scene.
Police are treating the attack as a terrorist incident, believing a lone man detonated an improvised explosive device before dying at the scene.
“The priority is to establish whether he was acting alone or as part of a network,” said Hopkins.
Major Police Operation and Public Safety Measures
A large cordon remains around Manchester Arena and Victoria Train Station, which is closed for a forensic search. Commuters are urged to check Transport for Greater Manchester for updates.
Hopkins praised emergency services for their swift, “outstanding” response – highlighting years of preparation for such tragedies.
He urged the public to remain vigilant but continue daily life, reporting suspicious activity to the Anti-Terror Hotline or 999.
“Terrorists try to create fear and distrust, but Greater Manchester has a long history of communities standing together during tough times.”
How You Can Help
If you have images or footage from the attack, upload them to Ukpoliceimageappeal.co.uk or Ukpoliceimageappeal.com to aid the investigation.
